Yankees manager Joe Girardi took exception to Rays infield prospect Elliot Johnson crashing into catcher Francisco Cervelli in the ninth inning of Saturday's exhibition and said such tactics were "uncalled for" and inappropriate for spring training.
He also suggested manager Joe Maddon needs to tone down the Rays, citing Carl Crawford's collision Wednesday with Houston's catcher.
"I don't understand it,'' Girardi said. "I've always known that you don't do it. I know kids are playing aggressive and they're playing hard - that's how you want them to play - but maybe if it happens too much you should mention something.''
Maddon, though, had no problem with Johnson's play: "I loved the hardball right there. We're playing it hard, we're playing it right.''
Johnson said he was doing what he thought was the right thing in that situation: "I'm trying to show these guys what I can do. I'm just trying to score the run. That's my job. And looking back at it I'd have to say I'd probably do the same thing.''
Cervelli, the team's top catching prospect, sustained a fractured right wrist and was being treated at St. Joseph's Hospital.
Joe Maddon, Johnny Damon and Evan Longoria are only some of the Rays you'll meet through our new video interview series. Don't see your favorite player yet? Check back often, as we'll add to the series as the season progresses.
