Number 35

Some numbers are synonymous with certain players: 3 for the Babe, 42 for Jackie Robinson to name a couple.

But what of the number 35?
Well, there's Ricky Henderson, Phil Niekro and Frank Thomas. But as a Yankee fan that number goes to a moose.

THE Moose,to be exact, Mike Mussina. No one has worn that number since the righty retired in 2008 after a 20-9 campaign(the first pitcher to retire after a 20-win season since Sandy Koufax in 1966).

But coming into spring training, the number 35 will be worn by a young phenom. Michael Pineda is the "prize" of the Yankee offseason. The bulky right-hander from the Mariners, has a huge frame while handling a high 90s fastball. He has drawn comparisons to Felix Hernandez and to the Yanks own CC Sabathia.

Pineda finished 2011 with a 9-10 record, 3.73 ERA and 173 strikeouts for one of the most inept offenses in recent memory.

The Yanks hope they have found the current number 2 starter and future ace for years to come. Why else would they trade Jesus Montero, the Yanks number one hitting prospect, for him?

Will he live up to our standards? Will he be worth the possible talent dealt in Montero?

Or is he just what the Yanks need to compliment a growing starting rotation like another 35 did back when the Bombers had in 2000?

All of this has yet to be seen, but Pineda has some big shoes to fill to do the number on his back justice.

270 Wins
3.68 ERA
2,813 Strikeouts
7-time Gold Glove winner

Good luck Pineda.