Yankees LF Damon takes batting practice

Jul 19, 2008 - 10:42 PM BRONX, New York (Ticker) -- New York Yankees left fielder Johnny Damon moved closer to returning to the lineup after taking batting practice prior to Saturday's 4-3 victory over the Oakland Athletics.

Damon was placed on the disabled list on July 6, two days after he sprained his left shoulder while crashing into the wall trying to make a catch. He spent the All-Star break at the Yankees' minor league complex in Tampa, Florida and hit off a tee on Friday.

New York manager Joe Girardi said Damon could return to the lineup without having to play in a minor league rehab game.

"That's something we'll have to talk about," Girardi said. "We'll decide whether it's best for him to go to rehab or not, and, obviously, the player can make that decision as well. I've seen a lot of players not need a rehab game."

The Yankees have missed Damon's presence at the top of the lineup. He batted a major-league best .425 in June, and his overall mark of .319 is fourth in the American League.

With a much less-promising report on fellow outfielder Hideki Matsui, the Yankees are eager to get back Damon as soon as possible.

On the DL since June 18 with recurring inflammation in his left knee, Matsui was told to rest on Friday. and avoid activity this weekend. Surgery remains an option for Matsui, who could miss the remainder of the season.