With the Joba Chamberlain/Josh Beckett match-up fast approaching, the Yankees are gearing up for their fifth contest against the Red Sox this season. At 0-4 against their rivals, the Yanks could really use a win.
They’ll try to earn that W under the shadow of injuries. Earlier today, the Yanks placed Jorge Posada on the DL. In his stead, the team has recalled Francisco Cervelli, the only other catcher on the 40-man roster, to the majors. Cervelli had not been hitting too well in AA, and his arrival in the Bronx leaves the Yanks’ bench very short on both hitters and depth. The three of us are surprised that Juan Miranda wasn’t summoned to the Bigs as well.
Posada’s absence will not be brief. Peter Abraham noted that Jorge has a Grade 2 strain. The Yanks are hoping to get Posada back within three weeks, but that’s beyond optimistic. I think we’re looking at an early June return for Jorge.
Meanwhile, the Yankees are hearing good news on Alex Rodriguez. The rehabbing third baseman hit two home runs in an Extended Spring Training game today and played seven innings in the field. The Yankees will not be sending A-Rod on any Minor League assignment, and the rumblings of a Friday activation date are growing louder. The Yanks need him now.
On the pitching front, Chien-Ming Wang is set for a Thursday start at EST. The Yanks have yet to announce his rehab plans, but Will Carroll recently reported that Wang will make at least two Minor League starts when the Yanks feel he is ready. Brian Bruney’s return is up in the air as well. While the Yankees originally said he would be back after the minimum 15 days, GAK III spoke with Bruney, and the Yanks’ erstwhile setup man said he won’t be back so soon. (And, yes, I think to a King post. He actually did some good work on that one.)
Anyway, it’s wet and cold and will be raining on and off for much of the evening. Sounds like a great night for a game. When Josh and Joba last faced off, the results were spectacular.
Jeter SS
Damon LF
Teixeira 1B
Matsui DH
Cano 2B
Swisher RF
Cabrera CF
Pena 3B
Molina C
Chamberlain P