In the final tilt of the New York Yankees and Minnesota Twins four game series, Phil Hughes will oppose Anthony Swarzak on the mound, seeking his first win for the Pinstripes in this young 2012 season.
Hughes has been chased early in each of his two starts this year, lasting just three and one-third innings his last time out in a 7-1 loss to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.
The 25-year old pitched well throughout spring training, giving hope to the Yankees that he could move past his forgettable 2011, during which he posted a 5.79 ERA. He hasn't yet, and Thursday night will be another critical outing for his future as it relates to staying in the Yankees' rotation.
Like Hughes, Swarzak has yet to record a win in 2012, but that has just as much to do with run support (Minnesota has combined for two runs in his two start) as has how he has pitched (he's allowed just five runs in 12 innings).
Derek Jeter continued his sharp start to the 2012 season on Wednesday night, stroking another home run and upping his batting average to .389. He'll likely be in his usual leadoff slot on Thursday night's series finale.
Game Time: 7:05 p.m. EST
TV Coverage: YES
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