Good morning, Pinstripe Alley!

• Evidently, it's news to the Los Angeles TImes that the Yankees used to have a costumed mascot in the 1970s. I'm positive this has circulated around Pinstripe Alley at least once, but a light refresher for those that weren't aware. Thankfully it's no longer around. Personally, I can't stand mascots in baseball. Especially this one.
• The Scranton Wilkes-Barre Yankees have changed their name and logo for the 2012 season. They'll be called the "Empire State Yankees". I'm not crazy about it, but they'll be playing home games all over the state of New York as PNC Field in Moosic undergoes renovations. Without a town or city to call home, I suppose "Empire State" makes sense.
• Mariano Rivera will announce his future plans by mid-season. There has been much speculation that Rivera will hang up his cleats after 2012, but that's a harsh reality to accept for everyone associated with the Yankee organization. I'm sure Rivera will make the best decision possible. My advice is to tune in every time games are late and close this season; he won't be around forever.

A few more links and questions after the jump...

• For those intrigued by legal matters involving members of the Yankee world, the accused stalker of Brian Cashman might be talking to a grand jury soon. What a mess that sounds like.
• Phil Hughes has admitted that last season was a failure. This is my shocked face.