Derek Jeter is ready for the next step in his rehab.
The Yankees captain increased his workload, and told The Associated Press he is ready to play minor-league rehab games Saturday and Sunday at Double-A Trenton then rejoin the Yankees in Cleveland on Monday.
“I feel good now,” Jeter said. “I feel a lot better. I’m ready to get out of here.”
Jeter has been on the disabled list since June 14 with a strained right calf. The shortstop was six hits shy of his 3,000th career hit when he suffered the injury. If he is back for the Indians series, there is a good chance he can reach the milestone at home when the Yankees face the Rays from July 7-10.
According to the AP, Jeter raised the intensity of his workout Wednesday at the team’s complex in Florida. He ran from home to first after hitting a ball and also worked on turning double plays. He had 60 swings in batting practice, took grounders and ran from first to third.
“I hadn’t done anything for a couple weeks, so it takes a little while to get loose and get in baseball shape,” Jeter said.
The 37-year-old is scheduled will work out Firday in Tampa before departing for Trenton. The Double-A Thunder face Altoona at home on Saturday and Sunday.
