Yankees release outfielder Matt Diaz

The Yankees have narrowed down their outfield competition even more on Monday when they released outfielder Matt Diaz. 

Diaz was signed in December to a minor league deal, which would allowed him to compete for a spot on the big league roster. The Yankees signed Diaz hoping for a bat off of the bench that could do some damage against lefties. 

Diaz posted a .200 batting average with 2 RBI's in 13 games this spring. 

Mark Teixeira may be out until June with wrist injury

The Yankees announced a few weeks ago that Mark Teixeira had a strained wrist tendon, but now Teixeira is saying the injury is worse than he expected.

Teixeira returned to Yankees camp for the first time since the injury and he told reporters that the injury was more severe and may require more time to heal. He stated that he now has a partially torn tendon in his wrist and surgery may be a possibility. Brian Cashman stated that his tendon is stable, so his timetable should remain the same.

As of now, Mark Teixeira is expected to return in May.

Last Ride: Mariano Rivera announces retirement plans

The Yankees Hall of Fame closer, Mariano Rivera, has announced on Saturday that 2013 will be his final season. Mariano Rivera has been the Yankees closer since 1996 an will end his career in 2013.

Mariano Rivera announced his retirement after the 2013 season in front of family, ownership, coaches, teammates, and media on Saturday. The press conference was around 10:00 am at the Yankees spring training complex.

"It's not so easy when you come to a decision like this," Rivera stated. "But i would love to say it has been a privilege and honor to wear the pinstriped uniform that i have proudly worn for some many years in good times, great times. It has been wonderful."

What once was just another season for Rivera has turned into a touring and celebrating season.

Curtis Granderson fractures forearm; out until May

Curtis Granderson was plunked only five pitches into his spring training, which has resulted into a broken forearm. Gradnerson will be forced to miss at least 10 weeks of action.

Granderson was in the midst of switching from center field to left field. Although those plans were not final, Brett Gardner will likely get the majority of playing time in center due to this injury.

The Yankees hope to get Granderson back at the end of April or Early May. 

Yankees acquire Shawn Kelly from Mariners

The Yankees have announced that they have acquired right-hander Shawn Kelly from the Mariners in exchange for minor league outfielder Abraham Almonte. The Yankees hope that Kelly can add some depth in their bullpen.

Kelly and the Mariners recently agreed on a $935,000, one-year contract to avoid arbitration about a week ago.

Shawn Kelly was designated for assignment by the Mariners on February 7th when the signed Kelly Shoppach.

Kelly posted a 2-4 record with a 3.25 ERA in 47 games last season.