Days away
Friday night in Baltimore still appears to be a viable date for Alex Rodriguez's return to the Yankees' lineup. At Tampa, Fla., on Tuesday, A-Rod went 3-for-6 with two home runs in an extended spring training game. "A great day," said manager Joe Girardi, who said Rodriguez (hip surgery) also ran hard and made two difficult plays at third base ? one a charge, another on a ball to his left, where he had to pirouette and throw. After his seven innings, A-Rod spoke by phone with Girardi, who suggested he perform strictly as a designated hitter during one of the next two days. Exactly when he'll return is up to Rodriguez. Girardi would like some comfort in knowing A-Rod feels strong after back-to-back strenuous days. But the manager is pleased to know that A-Rod isn't limping, which had been the case during spring training with Boston's Mike Lowell, who underwent a similar surgery. Lowell now plays without a limp.
Club reacts to frenzy
The Yankees plan to be more proactive about informing fans during rain delays, said Yankees spokesman Jason Zillo. Scores of fans had left Monday's game and were denied reentry (as per club rules) when the contest against Boston started at 9:22 p.m.
On Tuesday, the Daily News reported that much of the confusion was because of employees telling fans that the game was about to be postponed. "There should be one voice coming from the Yankees during any rain delay," Zillo said.
Briefs
Brian Bruney (elbow sprain) said he's inclined to take a more conservative route back. "That way, hopefully, we won't have any setbacks," said Bruney, who might play catch Thursday. A return later this month is reasonable.
After tossing a strong 4 1/3 innings Monday, Alfredo Aceves will remain in the bullpen "as of right now," Girardi said.
