Yankees 4, Cardinals 0

Derek Jeter is just about ready to play in the field for the first time this year.

Jeter went 0 for 2 in his second game as a designated hitter since returning from a broken ankle, a win for New York over St. Louis.

The Yankees captain was hurt Oct. 13 in the AL championship series opener. Jeter grounded out in the first and hit into a double play in the third. He could play shortstop Wednesday

"That's the plan as of now," he said.

New York's Hiroki Kuroda gave up three hits and struck out six in four innings.

"I'm getting there," Kuroda said through a translator.

Kevin Youkilis hit a fourth-inning solo homer off Lance Lynn, who allowed one run and two hits over four innings.

Youkilis, who started at first base for the first time this spring training, also had a sacrifice fly. Signed to fill in for third baseman Alex Rodriguez (hip surgery), Youkilis could see time at first because Mark Teixeira is sidelined until at least May due to a wrist injury.

New York right-hander Phil Hughes threw 27 pitches during his second mound session since being diagnosed with a bulging disk in his upper back three weeks ago. Yankees pitching coach Larry Rothschild did not rule out Hughes being ready for the first week of the regular season.

Mets 11, Tigers 0

Jonathon Niese took another step toward earning an opening day start if Johan Santana is not ready, allowing one hit in 4 2-3 innings and leading New York to a win.

Niese, whose 13 wins last season is best among the Mets' returning starters, walked four with no strikeouts on a day that the wind was blowing out in Tigertown. He hasn't allowed a run against a major league team this spring.

Jordany Valdespin homered in the first inning, and Brian Bixler and Brandon Hicks also connected for the Mets.

Marlins 8, Red Sox 7

Top prospect Christian Yelich spoiled Jon Lester's five sharp innings, hitting a two-run homer with two outs in the ninth that lifted Miami to a victory.

Lester allowed a first-inning run and three hits. He struck out four and retired the last 11 batters he faced.

Boston's Jackie Bradley Jr. homered on the game's first pitch and reached base four times. He went 3 for 4 to raise his average to .519 (14 for 27). Bradley added an RBI double in the fourth.