Pavano earns Yankee applause

When the Yankees came to camp five weeks ago, there was little doubt that Carl Pavano was the biggest question mark facing the team this season. Having not pitched since June 2005, Pavano had become a punch line in his own clubhouse, with teammates even questioning his desire.

With a little more than one week until Opening Day, Pavano has answered many of those questions, with yesterday's performance marking the latest step toward redemption. "This is what we hoped we would see; he certainly hasn't let us down," Joe Torre said. "The spot was his to have, and he's certainly seized the opportunity." Continue