TAMPA, Fla. — Kevin Youkilis agrees with Joba Chamberlain: Any tension between the new teammates is in the past.
Youkilis took part in his first workout with the New York Yankees on Thursday and addressed his past with Chamberlain, when the two feuded over tight fastballs.
After Youkilis agreed to join the Yankees, Chamberlain left him a voicemail. Chamberlain said in January that he had not heard back, then said earlier this month he had received a text.
“You guys have written a lot about it, and I think it’s just something you guys keep going on and on about,” Youkilis told reporters Thursday. “But we’re here at spring training as a team and ready to play. I hope the only drama this year we create is walk-off home runs and hits.”
Youkilis and Chamberlain, who was taking part in the second day of workouts for New York’s pitchers and catchers, didn’t cross paths Thursday. Both are looking forward to seeing each other.
“At some time, we’ll all sit down and talk, but things all are going to be OK. Don’t worry,” Youkilis said.
The one-time Boston Red Sox third baseman was part of a pre-spring training session at the Yankees’ minor league complex. Youkilis took batting practice and also stopped at Steinbrenner Field, New York’s spring training home, and talked with manager Joe Girardi.
New York’s position players are scheduled to report Sunday.
A three-time All-Star, Youkilis figures to be the Yankees’ starting third baseman for at least the first half of the season while Alex Rodriguez recovers from hip surgery. Youkilis agreed to a $12 million, one-year contract in December.
“I’m just going out there and try to play,” Youkilis said. “I’ll never be Alex Rodriguez. Alex Rodriguez is one of the best hitters of all time. But I could be a good major league player that can help a team win.”
After spending 8 1/2 years in Boston and winning a pair of World Series titles, Youkilis was traded from the Red Sox to the Chicago White Sox last June.
“Philosophically, he’s exactly the type of player that we like,” Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. “Plate discipline, power. He’s a big, hairy monster.”
Youkilis joins Babe Ruth, Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens and Johnny Damon as Boston players who made the switch to the Bronx.
