Outfield was supposed to be an area of strength for the Yankees. 

It's been a little more than six months since the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Chicago White Sox to win the first playoff series in the club's initial postseason appearance. 

The road-weary New York Yankees headed to their new home feeling pretty good about themselves. 

WASHINGTON - The impulse was not a typical one for Todd Kalas. 

One of manager Joe Maddon's primary goals the first week of the season was to get a better feel for new relievers Joe Nelson and Brian Shouse. 

Rays manager Joe Maddon considered it a preview of what's to come in the rugged AL East, a fierce battle of starting pitchers. 

--Veteran OF Gabe Kapler had an interesting and honest take on being struck out Monday by Yankees infielder/outfielder-turned-reliever Nick Swisher: "I've always been lost when a reporter asks me what my most embarrassing moment was because I never know 

By LUIS PEREZ 

Xxxxxxx 

By MARC TOPKIN 

Before the New York Yankees go home to celebrate the opening of their lavish new $1. 

Coming off an embarrassing loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, the New York Yankees needed a lift from A. 

After pre-game ceremonies Monday to raise the championship banners and Tuesday to give out their AL rings, the Rays want to move on and concentrate on this season. 

--RHP Joe Nelson's rental apartment isn't available until Wednesday, so he is living with RHP Troy Percival for a few days at his Clearwater condo. 

One of manager Joe Maddon's primary goals the first week of the season was to get a better feel for new relievers Joe Nelson and Brian Shouse.