Derek Jeter on the DL in Season Opener vs. Red Sox

Things had been looking so good for Derek Jeter. After breaking his ankle on October 13 of last year, it was unknown how long the injury would keep him from the Yankees’ lineup. He has been consistent in saying that he’ll be ready to play on opening day against the Boston Red Sox on April 1, but Yankees general manager, Brian Cashman says that hope is now “unrealistic.”

As recent as earlier this month it looked as though Jeter would be joining his teammates on opening day. He played his first game in spring training, stepping in as a designated hitter; and then returned to his regular position of shortstop for back to back games on March 15 and 16. Ever since though, his ankle has been inflamed and he’s been back in rehab, unlikely to be finished by that looming April 1 date.

“April 1 is unrealistic in my mind now,” Cashman said this past weekend when talking about Jeter’s condition. “There’s nothing new going on other than growing pains as he gets through these final hurdles of his rehab. The disabled list might be necessary. I told him what I think, and he didn’t fight me on it.”

So when will he be back? Because Jeter filled in as designated hitter in only some minor league exhibition games this weekend, the Yankees could back date his time on the disabled list until April 6. That means he could be back in time to play Detroit.

“It’s a goal, it doesn’t mean it’s an absolute,” said Cashman, indicating that Jeter’s time on the DL could be even longer. Until then, Eduardo Nunez will be filling in at the shortstop position.

Categorized in: MLB