After missing most of spring training and the first 22 games of the season because of a broken left foot, Francisco Cervelli was activated from the disabled list last night and the backup catcher is pain-free.
“I’m new again,” he said.
Russell Martin caught last night for the 21st time in 23 games this season, but now that the Yankees have Cervelli as the backup — rather than Gustavo Molina, who was optioned to make room for Cervelli — Martin could get more rest.
Manager Joe Girardi said it’s likely he could play Cervelli more than he did Molina.
“Cervelli has been a better batter than Molina during his career.”
Girardi indicated he will use Martin today with A.J. Burnett, a battery that has worked well. Girardi said Cervelli likely will catch tomorrow when Ivan Nova starts.
Cervelli said he was ecstatic to be back with the major league club. Even if he still hurt, being in The Bronx would fix it.
“I’m excited to be here,” he said. “When you get here, you don’t feel anything.”
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After jamming his shoulder on Tuesday and sitting out Thursday’s game, Mark Teixeira returned to the lineup last night and went 1-for-4 with a walk in the Yankees’ 5-3 loss.
“Not bad,” the first baseman said. “Still felt a little bit.”
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Girardi said Phil Hughes hasn’t gotten too anxious over his upcoming appointment with Dr. William Thompson on Monday in St. Louis to determine if the righty has Theracic Outlet Syndrome, a circulation problem.
“I am sure he is still wondering what exactly is going on,” Girardi said. “But as I said, Phil is a pretty calm guy. His personality doesn’t seem to be a lot different.”
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RHP Kevin Millwood has an out in his contract tomorrow if he’s not promoted to the majors. Millwood was roughed up on Thursday, getting shelled for six runs in two innings.
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The Yankees donated $500,000 to relief efforts for victims of the southern tornadoes, giving $250,000 apiece to the Salvation Army and Red Cross.
— Additional reporting by George A. King III.