TAMPA, Fla. — Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter has taken another stride forward in his comeback from a broken left ankle by running outdoors for the first time in two months.
Jeter started the running program Thursday at Steinbrenner Field and called it “the last step” before playing in minor league games. The Yankees captain hopes to run the bases soon.
There is no date yet for Jeter to begin a minor league injury rehabilitation assignment.
After the workout, which was moved due to wet grounds, Jeter drove teammate Alex Rodriguez back to the Yankees’ minor league complex from nearby Steinbrenner Field. Rodriguez is rehabbing following hip surgery in January.
Jeter said “of course” when asked if Rodriguez will be a productive player when he rejoins the Yankees and added there is “no way he can be a distraction to us.”
Rodriguez did not stop to talk with reporters when he left the complex.
The Yankees expect both to return to the active roster after the All-Star Break.
