TAMPA, Fla. (AP) _ Cuban defector Andy Morales starred in his American pro debut, hitting a two-out, two-run double in the bottom of the ninth inning to lift the New York Yankees over the Texas Rangers 6-5 Wednesday night.

Morales, a third baseman who officially joined the Yankees on Sunday, went 1-for-2. He lined a shot down the right-field line off Pete Munro to complete a three-run rally in the ninth.

"We want to get him some at-bats and see where he fits in the organization," Yankees manager Joe Torre said of Morales, who will likely start the season in the minors.

Texas shortstop Alex Rodriguez, who was loudly booed, went 2-for-3. It was his first appearance against the Yankees since making remarks that many thought were critical of his friend, New York shortstop Derek Jeter.

Rodriguez and Jeter have talked about the comments, and both say the matter is closed.

Alfonso Soriano, who is being given a serious look in left field, went 2-for-3 with two RBIs for the Yankees. He hit a first-inning solo homer and added a 400-foot sacrifice fly to center during a two-run, fifth-inning.

Michael Hernandez hit an RBI single in the Yankees' ninth, making it 5-4 and setting up Morales.

Bo Porter homered for Texas and Mike Lamb hit a run-scoring triple.

Christian Parker made a strong statement in the wide-open battle for the Yankees' fifth starter slot by allowing one hit in three shutout innings.

"There are some spots open," Parker said. "I'm just trying to take advantage of the opportunities given to throw."

Rangers starter Kenny Rogers gave up one run and five hits in four innings. He struck out one and walked one.

"I was just trying to throw from the different angles that I throw from," Rogers said. "I did that pretty well. The only thing I was disappointed with was my changeup."

Notes: Yankees pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre rejoined the team after undergoing his normal six-month checkup. He missed the postseason last year because of multiple myeloma. ... Rodriguez and Yankees RHP Roger Clemens, who delivered a high-and-tight pitch to the shortstop during last season's ALCS, taped a commercial together. ... Rangers manager Johnny Oates said OFs Rusty Greer (groin) and Gabe Kapler (hand) might return by the weekend.