Tanaka throws 2 perfect innings, tops 94 mph in spring debut

Masahiro Tanaka's first spring start couldn't have gone any better. 

It was perfect.

Tanaka didn't allow a baseunner through two innings of work against the Atlanta Braves on Thursday, striking out two and inducing four groundballs on 19 pitches. He threw 15 strikes and his fastball sat in the 89-91 mph range, topping out at 94.

The New York Yankees ace caught Braves first baseman Freddie Freeman looking on a sharp breaking ball to end the first before sitting Jonny Gomes down with a nasty splitter in the dirt to open the second.

(Courtesy: MLB.com)

Tanaka, who was on a 35-pitch limit, finished his work in the bullpen after retiring all six batters he faced.

The 26-year-old right-hander missed 2 1/2 months last season after partially tearing the UCL in his right elbow, but returned to make a pair of September starts. He's expected to be ready by Opening Day.