Network: WPIX-11
Announcers: Frank Messer, Phil Rizzuto, Bobby Murcer, Bill White
Format: DVD (3 disks)
Quality: 8.0
Notes: Includes post-game wrap-up... Commercials edited out... Grade would be about 8,5 if not for recurrent minor tracking.

Yankees top the Twins 4-1 in the home opener at Yankee Stadium.

Phil Niekro's knuckleball is working on a windy day, going 6 1/3rd scoreless innings, allowing 5 hits and just 1 walk. Niekro departs nursing a 2-0 lead provided by Willie Randolph's 2-run HR off Frank Viola in the 3rd.

The Yankees extend the lead to 4-0 with 2 unearned runs that score on a booted play by Gary Gaetti. Minnesota attempts a rally in the 9th, scoring once and then loading the bases before Dave Righetti gets a game-ending double play.


Starting pitchers:
Twins - Viola
Yankees - Niekro

Winning pitcher - Niekro (2-0)
Losing pitcher - Viola (0-2)