Derek Jeter Works Out On Field For First Time Since Breaking Left Ankle
TAMPA, Fla. (CBSNewYork/AP) — Derek Jeter has worked out on a baseball field for the first time since breaking his left ankle last October.
The 38-year-old Yankees captain fielded 55 grounders on the grass in front of the infield dirt at shortstop on Monday at the team's minor league complex. He also hit in a batting cage.
"Everything went well," Jeter said as he drove out of the complex.
The 13-time All-Star expects to start in New York's opener against Boston on April 1. This is the time of year that Jeter usually starts his on-field pre-spring training routine.
Jeter broke the ankle lunging for a grounder in the American League Championship Series opener against Detroit on Oct. 13. He had surgery a week later, and the Yankees said that the recovery time would be four to five months.
Jeter has been walking on an underwater treadmill at the team's facility since early January.
Wearing Yankees shorts and a T-shirt with long sleeves, the shortstop walked from the clubhouse to the main field without a limp. Several team officials, including trainer Mark Littlefield, watched Jeter's workout.
Jeter, who spent 90 minutes at the complex, did not run — he may not until spring training starts in mid-February.
The 17-year veteran batted .316 with 15 home runs and 58 RBIs in 2012 for New York. He first injured his ankle in mid-September and then fouled balls off his foot several times after that.
Yankees' pitchers and catchers are scheduled to report for spring training two weeks from Tuesday.
Do you expect to see DJ starting at short on Opening Day? Sound off with your thoughts and comments below...
(TM and © Copyright 2013 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2013 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
