While even the best prognostications have Derek Jeter out of the Yankee lineup until at least the All-Star game, the legendary Yankee shortstop did take another step on his road back to the team on Wednesday, as he was cleared by doctors to participate in some throwing drills and play catch with teammates.
It is the first official on the field activity for Jeter since April when it was found that he had a second fracture in his ankle and needed more time off. Jeter has not played since injuring himself at the end of last season.
The Yankees, 30-22 on the season, 2nd in the AL East just 1 game behind the rival Boston Red Sox, having been winning without their leader. However there is no doubt that Jeter would be a big boost to the Yankee lineup. New York shortstops are hitting just .214/.288/.289 this season while Jeter batted .316/.362/.429 in 2012. Jayson Nix and Reid Brignac have played adequate defense but just aren’t the kind of names that scare opposition hitters.
Jeter, ever the consummate professional and team player praised the work his teammates have done in his absence stating, “Everyone talked about ‘Oh, they’re not going to hit home runs,’ and ‘how are you going to replace this guy, that guy? If you play good, you’re going to win games. Our team’s been playing good. It starts with the pitching. Our pitching staff has done a great job.”
When asked about the Yankees reliance on the return of the injured stars, and the boost it will give them down the stretch, Jeter said, ““You never concern yourself with people who aren’t here. “Just like, I’m pretty sure, they’re not concerned with me.” Clearly trying to keep the focus on the efforts of those who have been on the field this season.
In other Yankee injury news, Curtis Granderson underwent surgery on Wednesday to have a metal pin inserted into his broken knuckle. The surgery was said to be a success, and the original timeline which had Granderson missing four weeks on account of the injury has not changed due to the procedure.
The Yankees are also eagerly awaiting word as to when first baseman Mark Teixeira, and third baseman Kevin Youkilis will be able to rejoin the squad. Both are expected to be playing rehab games in the next few days.
Third Baseman Alex Rodriguez remains on the shelf until sometime after the all-star break.
Pitcher Joba Chamberlain was activated from the DL on Tuesday and has taken his place back on the Yankees staff, strengthening an already good bullpen.
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