FT. MYERS, Fla. — Francisco Cervelli was examined by Yankees team doctor Andrew Boyer yesterday and is scheduled to see a neurologist today.
Cervelli left Saturday’s game with a concussion after being hit in the head with a pitch. It’s the back-up catcher’s second concussion since November, when he was hit in the head by a bat.
“I talked to him and he said he felt good,” manager Joe Girardi said following an 11-0 loss to the Twins at Hammond Stadium. “After he sees the neurologist, he can do some light stuff at the ballpark. (Today) is a big day for him. I want to hear what the neurologist has to say before making a decision.”
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Asked when he expected Cervelli to play again, Girardi said, “It won’t be (today). We will talk to the doctor and see what he recommends.”
Since the NFL raised the awareness of concussions this past season, the subject is fresh.
“It’s a big concern; football players had to retire,” Girardi said. “The one that comes to mind for me is Merrill Hoge. It’s scary and I think it’s good that we pay more attention than we used to.”
Because Cervelli has suffered two concussions so close together, the Yankees will be careful.
“Hopefully he will be back in a few days, but we will be cautious,” Girardi said.
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Bench coach Tony Pena missed his second straight game due to the flu.
Kei Igawa had no chance to make the team when camp opened and yesterday he proved why. Igawa, who took over for Chad Gaudin in the fifth inning, gave up five runs and four hits — including a grand slam to Juan Portes — in one frame.
Brett Gardner is determined to bunt more in order to get on base this year and yesterday he got one down that resulted in a leadoff single in the fourth inning.
“They (infielders) will play in for me regardless and that will open up some holes,” Gardner said.
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Nick Johnson‘s first medical hurdle of the year has been cleared. The DH is slated to play today against the Phillies.
Johnson was scratched last Thursday due to a strained lower back suffered because he foolishly wore spikes during batting practice on a turf set-up and hasn’t played since.
“I’m good to go,” Johnson said following batting practice yesterday at George M. Steinbrenner Field. “No problems. I feel good.”
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Andy Pettitte threw two 18-pitch innings in a simulated game yesterday morning. He gave up one hit, a double, walked one and struck out three. The batters were Randy Winn and Colin Curtis. Curtis doubled to right center.
Mariano Rivera, Damaso Marte and Chan Ho Park are scheduled to throw batting practice today for the first time.
Phil Hughes and Joba Chamberlain threw bullpen sessions yesterday in Tampa. Chamberlain said he is completely over the flu. They are slated to pitch Wednesday in Lakeland against the Tigers.