Girardi exercises caution with Robertson

Girardi exercises caution with Robertson

Ron Antonelli/New York Daily News

Yankees pitcher Dave Robertson, who hasn't been on the mound since May 12, is recovering from a strained left oblique.

OAKLAND Dave Robertson began a throwing program Thursday in Tampa, and although the reliever is hoping to rejoin the Yankees in Detroit next weekend, Joe Girardi isnt so sure thats a reality.

Im not sure thats going to happen, Girardi said. I think players are always hopeful. They dont always put the timeline together.

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Robertson hasnt pitched since May 12 because of a strained left oblique, and although hes eligible to come off the disabled list on Tuesday, his next throwing session isnt even scheduled until Monday.

Girardi said Robertson felt pretty decent on Friday, but there is no timetable yet for him to get on a mound.

I think theres some stiffness there, Girardi said. Hes had inactivity and hasnt used that area in probably about 15 days. We have to be a little bit cautious in the beginning to make sure nothings there.

Brett Gardner is also in Tampa to continue rehab on his injured right elbow, but he isnt slated to swing a bat until Monday.

REMEMBER MAINE?
The Yankees have signed John Maine to a minor-league deal, adding the former Met for organizational pitching depth.

Brian Cashman confirmed the signing, which was first reported by MLB.com. The Yankee GM said Maine will report to Tampa to work out in extended spring training.

The 31-year-old hasnt pitched in the majors since 2010, his last season with the Mets. He started nine games that season before undergoing shoulder surgery.

MINOR SETBACK?
Manny Banuelos was placed on the seven-day disabled list by Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre this week with a left elbow injury, but Girardi said Friday that tests revealed no structural damage to the prospects prized arm.

His ligament checked out fine, Girardi said. Hes just got some soreness.

Banuelos, considered to be the Yankees top pitching prospect, is 0-2 with a 4.50 ERA in six starts this
season.