LF Damon experiencing soreness

Jul 14, 2008 - 10:31 PM TAMPA, Florida (Ticker) -- New York Yankees left fielder Johnny Damon was unable to begin hitting off a tee Monday due to soreness in his injured left shoulder.

The Yankees said Damon's first session will be pushed back at least two days. He is on the disabled list for the first time in his career, having sprained the shoulder while crashing into the wall attempting to make a catch on July 4.

"(I) had a little soreness sleeping last night," said Damon, who underwent treatment at the Yankees' minor league complex . "Today it felt a little sore. We're just going to hold back the swinging at least two more days. Hopefully, it won't be too long of a time."

Prior to the injury, Damon had been hot, batting a major league-best .425 in June. Overall, he is hitting .319, fourth in the American League.

The Yankees have missed his presence at the top of the lineup, scoring just 21 runs in the eight games he has missed.