Joba Chamberlain today released this statement on the condition of his father, Harlan:

“After several difficult days, my father is feeling much better. He is still in the critical care unit of the hospital and more tests await him, but he is off the ventilator and breathing on his own. “Each day he’s acting more and more like himself, and he’s even giving people grief — myself included — because the hospital doesn’t carry Yankees games on television.

“When things like this occur in life, you certainly take notice of how much your teammates become more like family members. Their unconditional support, along with that of so many fans, has made a very tough time easier to deal with. Everyone’s love has been felt by my entire family, and it has brought great comfort to us when we have needed it most.

“I look forward to being reunited with my manager, coaches and teammates so I can thank each of them personally for all that they have done for my family.”

Chamberlain has been away from the Yankees since Monday, having been placed on the bereavement list to return home to Lincoln, Neb. to be with his family.