New York Yankees right-hander Masahiro Tanaka faced hitters for the first time in spring training Monday, testing out a full arsenal of pitches as he tries to regain his feeling for playing in the big leagues.

The $155 million starting pitcher, in his second season in the majors after his rookie year was cut short due to a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, threw five pitches apiece to five batters.

"My control was definitely there. It was a good first step," said Tanaka, who faced two left-handed hitters and three righties.