Projo Sports Blog

By Roderick Boone
Newsday

NEW YORK - Johnny Damon could be more than a designated hitter this weekend in Boston.

Damon, who started at DH against the Twins on Tuesday night for the second straight game, is increasing the distance of his throws by increments during his pregame routine each day as he attempts to build up strength in the left shoulder he injured July 4.

If Damon makes enough progress and doesn't feel any pain, he might find himself out in front of the Green Monster at some point in the huge series with the Red Sox.

"I'm not necessarily counting on it, but as you know, I like to have guys come back quick," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said before the game. "I would hope so, but I'm not going to rush him because we can't afford to have a setback here. So when he tells me he's ready, he's ready. And when he tells me he's ready, he might get an extra day."

YANKEES MUM ON POSADA

Here's what we do know: Jorge Posada went to see Dr. David Altchek as expected Tuesday.

That's about the extent of it.

The Yankees didn't offer any updates on the results of the examination of their injured starting catcher who was placed back on the 15-day disabled list Monday. Posada, who has a torn labrum and damage in his rotator cuff, went for an MRI on his right shoulder at the Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan in the afternoon.

But a team spokesman said neither general manager Brian Cashman nor the Yankees' doctors had made firsthand communication with Altchek to get the evaluation and his recommendations. So the Yankees weren't prepared to say what the next move is for the 37-year-old veteran.

Posada wasn't at the stadium last night because Cashman told him to stay home.

HOPING FOR MATSUI MIRACLE

Hideki Matsui, a likely candidate for surgery on his ailing left knee, is scheduled to try to resume baseball-related activities and hit off a tee Monday following a week of rest and strengthening.

It's almost a given that Matsui will need surgery. But Girardi, playing the role of the optimist, thinks there's an outside chance Matsui won't have to go under the knife.

"That's why we are trying it again," Girardi said, before adding: "We wouldn't have gave it another shot if we didn't think there was a possibility of him coming back."

 Tags  Johnny Damon New York Yankees

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