The most jarring sight at Yankee Stadium yesterday came about 90 minutes before the first pitch when Yankees third-base coach Rob Thomson posted a revised lineup without Derek Jeter’s name in it.
The Yankees shortstop was a late scratch because of a bruised right heel. Jeter did not speak to reporters, but it is believed the injury occurred on Friday night when he stepped on first base during one of his at-bats.
“His heel is sore,” Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. “We’ll see how he is [today]. I’m hoping we can put him back in the lineup [today].”
With Jeter out of the lineup, Ramiro Pena, originally playing third base, was moved to shortstop, and Kevin Russo got the start at third. Alex Rodriguez was the designated hitter the day after playing his first game at third in more than a week.
Girardi shuffled the batting order, moving Brett Gardner into Jeter’s usual leadoff spot and having Pena and Russo fill out the bottom of the order.
Jeter, who never likes to miss games, likely will fight to play today. Yesterday’s game was just the second one he has missed this year after sitting out April 18 against the Rangers when he was ill.
Girardi learned of the injury while speaking with the trainers yesterday morning. He was told Jeter received treatment on the foot Friday night, and after consulting with his coaches, Girardi decided to give Jeter the day off.
“I just thought it was in our best interest to sit him a day,” Girardi said. “Let’s try to get him healthy.”
Jeter remained on the top step of the dugout for most of the game. He is batting .280 this year with eight home runs and 39 RBIs.