"The Yankees knew they caught a break last season, when they needed just three starting pitchers to navigate the postseason. It's why they traded for right-hander Javier Vazquez, who was coming off a season in which he finished fourth in National League Cy Young voting.

But as they begin the postseason with tonight's Game 1 of the American League Division Series, the Yankees find themselves in the exact same scenario they faced last season.

A.J. Burnett, last year's clear No. 2 starter, pitched poorly enough to lose his rotation spot. And Vazquez endured a nightmarish return to the Bronx.

So, for the first round, the Yankees have committed to a three-man rotation. It will be fronted by ace CC Sabathia and filled out by left-hander Andy Pettitte and righty Phil Hughes.

Sabathia would pitch Game 4 on three-days' rest if needed.

"A.J. was outstanding for us last year in the playoffs," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "It's not easy. And they are tough decisions that you have to make."

Meanwhile, in Burnett and Vazquez, the Yankees paid $28 million this season for a pair of pitchers who won't be part of the postseason rotation."