Yankees DH Nick Johnson scratched from lineup

Mar 4, 2010 - 8:05 PM CLEARWATER, Fla.(AP) -- New York Yankees designated hitter Nick Johnson was scratched from the starting lineup for Thursday's game against Philadelphia because of a stiff lower back.

Jamie Hoffmann replaced Johnson in the game that featured new Phillies ace Roy Halladay and Yankees star CC Sabathia.

Johnson was signed during the offseason to take the spot of 2009 World Series MVP Hideki Matsui, who is now with the Los Angeles Angels. Johnson hit an RBI double in the Yankees' exhibition opener Wednesday.

"It won't be too long," Johnson said. "I'm not worried. It will be all right."

Johnson was hurt during batting practice, saying the problem stemmed from wearing spikes for the first time instead of turf shoes on the mats used in the cage.

"Caught a spike," Johnson said. "I felt a little something. I could have played. We'll see how I feel tomorrow."

Also, Yankees star Alex Rodriguez, who didn't make the road trip and practiced at the team's complex in Tampa, said there was still "nothing new" regarding a pending interview with federal investigators who are conducting a probe into a Canadian doctor accused of selling an unapproved drug.

Dr. Anthony Galea is facing four charges in his country related to the drug known as Actovegin, which is extracted from calf's blood and used for healing. His assistant also has been charged in the U.S. for having HGH and another drug while crossing the border in September.

NOTES: RHP Joba Chamberlain, slowed the past couple days by flulike symptoms, worked out in Tampa and is scheduled to make his first spring training appearance on Friday. Chamberlain and RHP Phil Hughes, who will also pitch in Friday's game against Tampa Bay, are the front-runners for the fifth starter spot. ... LHP Andy Pettitte has a bullpen session and will pitch in a simulated game on Sunday.