Alex Rodriguez returns to the Yankees lineup as the DH for tonight’s series opener against the mariners at the Stadium.

Rodriguez has not played since Aug. 16, sidelined with a strained left calf.

“Yeah, I’m in the lineup,” Rodriguez said after taking batting practice. “You have to be cautious and (not) ramp it up a little bit, and be careful taking an extra base and that kind of stuff.”

Rodriguez tested the leg out in batting practice, taking grounders at third base and jogging around the bases.

Girardi said they will get through tonight before figuring out the rest of the weekend and if Rodriguez can return to the field.

“A lot of it depends on how he feels,” Girardi said. “It’s one thing to watch him and say he looks great but he’s going to have to let me know when he feels he’s ready to go play the infield. Let’s get by the DH day first, hope everything goes well, when he feels ready I told him to let me know.” 

Tonight’s lineup:

Gardner LF

Jeter SS

Teixeira 1B

Rodriguez DH

Cano 2B

Swisher RF

Granderson CF

Cervelli C

Pena 3B

Burnett P

With Brian Lewis