Teixeira hopes to rejoin the Yankees on Sunday
TAMPA, Fla. (AP) Mark Teixeira could be back in the New York Yankees' lineup Sunday.
The first baseman walked twice, struck out and scored a run Thursday in his first extended spring training game since injuring his right leg.
Teixeira is eligible to come off the 15-day disabled Sunday, when the Yankees finish a four-game series against Tampa Bay.
''I'll be ready Sunday,'' Teixeira said. ''I will be fully ready to play Sunday and will be very disappointed if I don't.''
Teixeira played three innings of defense Thursday against Toronto minor leaguers. He is scheduled to get five at-bats and play five innings in the field in another extended spring training game Friday.
''Everything feels great,'' Teixeira said. ''I've had no problems.''
Teixeira said he hurt an adductor muscle that runs alongside the hamstring trying to make a play on a foul grounder during an April 4 game against Toronto.
Infielder Brendan Ryan, on the disabled list since opening day due to a pinched nerve in his upper back, says he will play in his first extended spring training game Friday and will get three at-bats.
''It's been amazing the last couple days,'' Ryan said after working out. ''No feeling of discomfort. Nothing there.''
Ryan is hopeful of being ready to rejoin the Yankees in 10 days to two weeks.
Closer David Robertson had a bullpen session before Thursday night's game against the Rays and is to pitch in an extended spring training game Saturday. On the disabled list due to a left groin strain, Robertson is expected to return Tuesday.
Robertson said he hasn't felt any discomfort in the last five days.