Yankees SS Jeter scratched from Tuesday's lineup

Derek Jeter says he was removed from Tuesday's lineup for ''precautionary'' reasons because his surgically repaired left ankle feels ''stiff.''



The New York Yankees' 13-time All-Star was slated to play his first road game this spring, but was removed from the lineup against the Philadelphia Phillies after taking batting practice.

Jeter says he might be able to play Wednesday, and doesn't consider this a setback.

Jeter broke his left ankle in Game 1 of the ALCS against Detroit. He played in his first spring game on March 9 and is 3 for 11 so far. Last season, he led the American League with 216 hits and batted .316 with 15 homers and 58 RBIs.

Yankees manager Joe Girardi said Tuesday morning Jeter might start the season as a designated hitter against Boston if the Red Sox start a left-handed pitcher.
Those plans are temporarily on hold.