Kuroda makes a strong first impression as Yanks shut out Halos

Jorge Posada got the afternoon started with an emotional ceremonial first pitch, but it was Hiroki Kuroda who captivated Yankee fans from the Yankee Stadium mound on this day. After a very pedestrian debut with the Yankees’ in Tampa Bay, Kuroda drew the start in the Yankees’ home opener and responded by tossing a gem, carrying a four hit shutout into the 9th inning before Joe Girardi lifted him for David Robertson after a Bobby Abreu infield single. Kuroda was good in every facet of his game, working quickly, throwing strikes, and commanding all of pitches throughout the course of the game to keep the Angels’ bats at bay. READ MORE