Longoria not likely for Yankees series

Manager Joe Maddon said he wouldn't count on Evan Longoria returning in time for the Yankees series (next Tuesday through Thursday at the Trop).

The All-Star third baseman has been rehabbing a fractured right wrist; he threw again Saturday afternoon and has been swinging with a broomstick, but Maddon doesn't know if Longoria will be ready to go for the rest of the homestand.

"I would say probably not - it doesn't look really hopeful," Maddon said. "I wouldn't count on it. I'm not saying it won't happen, but I won't count on it."

When Longoria was placed on the disabled list Aug 11 after getting hit by a pitch in the Seattle series, the Rays initially estimated he could return on or around Sept. 1. But Maddon said Longoria would probably have to do live batting practice at least two to three days before he plays in an actual game, and the Rays haven't discussed that part of his progression.

"I've been antsy from day one, but what can I do?" Longoria said. "If I re-injure this, it's going to be worse and I'll end up being out the whole season anyway. I'm close to coming back, it's just that we're playing well anyway right now, so there's no need for me to rush back."

The Rays are 12-5 in a recent stretch with Longoria, Troy Percival and Carl Crawford on the DL.

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com

Comments

[Ryan]

I agree with this decision, based on what Willy Aybar has done at the plate. Not that Aybar has done a better job that Longoria, but he has done better than good enough (way better actually) and we can definately keep winning with him at 3B and let Longoria heal properly.

[9equals8.com]

With Willy so hot, Longo should make sure he is absolutely 100% before coming back. We need him down the stretch and pushing things along will be no good. Would be nice to have him get some reps in the Toronto series so he's ready when they make the trip to Boston on 9/8-10. That series and the 9/15-17 series may be the deciding factor in the AL East race.

[Tim]

I agree with the above comments .. When he has been given consistent playing time, Willy Aybar has shown his above average talent .. Both in the field & batting .. Just another quiet piece of the machine ...

[drew]

take your time longo! till october if needed we need ya help to bring the mlb title to tampa! GO RAYS!

[mo]

There's absolutely no need for him to be back any earlier than necessary.. especially with the way Aybar has been playing

[max]

Get yourself well, Longo. This team needs you, but Willy and the others have your back. Next time you come back, we want you back for the duration! Go Rays!