The Yankees news cycle sometimes forgets how long a 162-game season is, sometimes placing too much emphasis on a single series, game, or even at-bat.
However, new NY Yankees pitcher and Japanese sensation Masahiro Tanaka seems well aware that the season is a jog and not a sprint.
When asked about his first regular season start in the Majors on Friday night in Toronto, Tanaka seems as composed as a 25-year-old pitcher could possibly be in such a situation --
"I’ll be looking into the Blue Jays batters thoroughly from here on," Tanaka stated through his interpreter earlier this morning. "As far as excitement goes, I guess I can say I’m still not there yet."
Masahiro Tanaka went 2-0 with a 2.14 ERA in five starts this spring -- allowing just 15 hits in 21 innings pitched. He also walked just three batters against a staggering 26 strikeouts, posting a miniscule 0.86 WHIP
However, despite his cool demeanor, the newest Yankees ace isn't ready to let his focus lapse in the least.
"I do feel that I learned a lot throughout the spring training," Tanaka said.
"I think the important thing for me is not to stop here and keep learning as the season progresses."