Yankees Captain Jeter Hits In First Simulated Game In Tampa

TAMPA, Fla. (CBSNewYork/AP) — New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter is on the road back to the majors.

The Yankees captain has hit in his first simulated game since going on the disabled list earlier this month with a strained right calf.

Jeter batted against a minor league right-handed pitcher Monday at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Fla.

He also showed improved mobility during infield drills, making leaping throws to first after fielding two grounders back-handed between shortstop and third and spin moves on a pair of balls up the middle.

The 39-year-old ran six sprints in the outfield, but did not run the bases, which is a key step before playing in games.

Jeter broke his left ankle in the AL championship series in October and missed the first 91 games this year. Since then the 13-time All-Star, who is hitting .211 (4 for 19) with one home run and two RBIs, has spent time on the DL with a strained right quadriceps and the calf injury.

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