Local sports brief

Rasner sent down to Triple A by Yanks

Darrell Rasner, a 1999 Carson High graduate, was sent down to Triple A Scranton/Wilkes Barre on Friday as the New York Yankees made several cuts to finalize their opening day roster.

It appeared that Rasner's chance to make the opening day roster as the Yankees long reliever/spot starter improved when Jeff Karstens was injured on Thursday. Karstens and Rasner were among those competing for the long reliever job.

But another injury - that to Andy Pettitte - was a major factor in why Rasner didn't make the opening day roster. Pettitte hasn't pitched since March 17 and was placed on the disabled list.

With Pettitte on the disabled list, the Yankees decided not to begin the season with a long reliever. Relief pitchers who did make the opening day roster included Brian Bruney, Ross Ohlendorf, Jonathan Albaladejo and Billy Traber.

Pettitte is expected to come off the DL to start the Yankees fifth game of the season on April 6. Among others who were set to Triple A was Kei Igawa, who also was competing with Rasner for the long reliever spot.