Entering yesterday’s start, A.J. Burnett had turned in three outings that can be described as decent at least by his standards. He has pitched into the sixth in three straight starts for the first time since doing so in each start through July 29.
According to manager Joe Girardi, the difference might be somewhat mechanical. Burnett was turning his back a little more, especially after the fourth inning last week in Seattle.
“I think it’s important for him to step up and give us distance and go out and throw the ball they way he did the last three innings the other night in Seattle, where he seemed to have command of everything, his curveball was outstanding, his changeup was good,” Girardi said. “I think it’s a chance for him to step up here.”
Testy Joe
The Yankees rotation is set through the Tampa Bay series with the exception of deciding on which games of Wednesday’s doubleheader Phil Hughes and CC Sabathia will start.
Beyond that, Joe Girardi have a clear-cut answer and he was less than thrilled with talking about it.
“I don’t want to get testy,” he said. “But we go through this everyday.”
Cervelli feeling better
Francisco Cervelli suffered a concussion 11 days ago in Baltimore, but the good news is that he has been symptom-free for the last three days.
Cervelli had an impact test that was pending a doctor’s review, but did say that this concussion lasted longer than the previous two when he felt the symptons for one or two days.
As for future protection, Cervelli said he might be go back to the larger batting helmet he has worn in the past — with an added wrinkle.
“I think I’m going to wear a hockey mask with spikes,” he said. “Something, man. It’s part of the game. I think I’ve got to wear the ‘Gazoo’ helmet again, and catching I don’t know. I’ve got to be ready. Maybe some metalon my face or something.”
Follow Larry Fleisher on Twitter @LarryFleisher for Yankees news throughout the postseason.
