Bombers bits

• Gardner said that batting seventh won't be a huge adjustment for him; actually, Gardner has solid career numbers in the No. 7 hole. In 46 games, he has batted .337 (31-for-92) with a .417 on-base percentage in that slot.

"My job is to get on base, and the guys that are on base when I'm hitting, I'll try and get them over or drive them in," Gardner said. "When I get on base, I'll try and run and get in scoring position. I'll just try to play my game."

• Ryan was officially placed on the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday, retroactive to March 22, with a cervical spine nerve injury. Ryan has not resumed baseball activities and is continuing to receive treatment at the Yankees' Tampa, Fla., facility.

• Girardi said that he has no lingering concern about center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury's right calf. The Yankees were cautious with Ellsbury during the second half of Spring Training, but Girardi said that he was encouraged that Ellsbury "was able to play the games when we needed him to play."

• On this date in Yankees history, Pettitte threw seven strong innings in 2003 to help the Yanks defeat the Blue Jays, 1-0. It marked the franchise's first April Fool's Day victory.