Yankees closer Rivera has first BP session

Mar 8, 2010 - 10:06 PM TAMPA, Fla.(AP) -- Yankees closer Mariano Rivera threw 34 pitches during his first batting practice session Monday.

Rivera has taken a slower approach at spring training for the past few years. The 40-year-old right-hander went 3-3 with 44 saves and a 1.76 ERA in 66 games last season.

"Delicious," Rivera said of facing hitters. "It was great."

Also, the Yankees announced that tests done by a neurologist Monday on backup catcher Francisco Cervelli, who left Saturday's game with a concussion after being hit in the helmet by a pitched ball, were normal and that he can resume physical activites Tuesday. He could catch a bullpen session and take batting practice, with manager Joe Girardi "leaning" toward playing him in a game on Friday.

"He got a good report, and I'm happy with that," Girardi said. "I want to see how he does the next couple days."

Girardi said Rivera will make the first of his eight or nine game appearances either March 16 or 17. The latter date would be a rare road game for the pitcher.

"Somewhere around there," Rivera said. "When the time comes I'll be ready."

Left-handed reliever Damaso Marte faced hitters for the first time, throwing 27 pitches. He is scheduled for his initial game March 16.

Chan Ho Park had his batting practice session pushed back to Tuesday due to gluteal muscles soreness.

"I'm OK," he said.

Nick Johnson was back in the lineup after missing the previous four games with lower back stiffness and went 0 for 2 with a walk in the Yankees' 7-5 win over Philadelphia