TAMPA — Only in spring training does a pitcher smile after taking the loss.

 

Felix Doubront gave up four runs in the second inning and that is all the New York Yankees needed in a 4-0 win over the Boston Red Sox Wednesday afternoon.

Doubront, the former Sea Dogs left-hander who is preparing for his second season as a Red Sox starter, said he made adjustments that held the Yankees scoreless over the final 2 1/3 innings of his outing. “I’m happy,” he said. “I can learn from this.”

In 4 1/3 innings, Doubront allowed seven hits (five in the second inning) and one walk, while striking out five.

Boston’s relievers – Andrew Bailey, Joel Hanrahan, Clayton Mortensen and Andrew Miller pitched hitless ball the rest of the game.

Although the Yankees and Red Sox represent a great rivalry, there is indifference during spring training. Both teams played few regulars on Wednesday. Kevin Youkilis, the former Boston All-Star who is replacing Alex Rodriguez at third base, went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts.

The Red Sox managed only four hits, two by outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr., who is now batting .444.


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