Brian McCann hasn’t been the only Yankee impacted by Mark Teixeira’s injury.
It’s also led to four straight games behind the plate for Francisco Cervelli — an almost unprecedented run for the oft-injured catcher.
But more importantly for the Yankees, Cervelli has consistently delivered, adding a run-scoring double in the fifth inning Thursday to give the Yankees the lead in their 4-2 win over the Rangers at Yankee Stadium.
Not surprisingly, Cervelli said he felt fine physically despite the increased workload.
“I’m good,” Cervelli said. “My season started the other day, so I’m fresh.”
That’s what happens when you miss the first two months of a season, as Cervelli did after straining his right hamstring in April.
While Cervelli was out, he watched John Ryan Murphy emerge as a viable backup to McCann, who has been playing first in Teixeira’s absence, before Cervelli finally got his job back.
With Thursday’s 1-for-3, Cervelli has a hit in eight of his last nine starts, including three doubles in his last two games.
Cervelli also has helped the pitching staff through some very effective performances, as the Rangers were limited to four runs in the three Yankee victories during the series.
“I think he and McCann are a lot alike,” said Matt Thornton, who pitched a third of an inning. “They take a lot of pride in what they do back there. They block balls in the dirt and he’s not afraid to come out and talk to you when you’re on the mound.”
It’s a different perspective from the one Thornton had as an opponent, when he watched Cervelli’s infamous energetic outbursts.
“I hated that stuff when I played against him,” Thornton said. “I said, ‘Look at this guy, fist-pumping off the field whenever there’s a strikeout to end an inning.’ Now, you kind of appreciate it.”
Because Teixeira’s lat strain is no sure thing to be cleared up, Cervelli could stay in the lineup.
“He’s been out there a few days in a row and you can see he’s comfortable,” Thornton said. “He’s obviously having a good time.”
Cervelli doesn’t disagree.
“I don’t know how many games we’ve got left, but we have to give everything we’ve got,” Cervelli said. “With all the things I’ve been through, I’ve got to be ready for every opportunity. I just want to win.”