Alex Rodriguez yesterday missed a start for the first time this season, but it was only a complete day off if you consider a trip to the hospital for an MRI rest and relaxation.

The test showed no damage to Rodriguez’s sore left hamstring, and the All-Star third baseman is expected back in the lineup tonight against the Angels.

Joe Torre said the fact the Yankees played a day game on Wednesday – Rodriguez went 0-for-4 as the designated hitter – and won’t play again until tonight essentially means a two-day hiatus for Rodriguez, perhaps enough time for him to shake the full effects of his sore hammy.

After the Yankees’ 7-6 victory over the Twins, Rodriguez declined to answer when a Post reporter asked him how he felt. Without acknowledging the question or breaking stride, Rodriguez bolted the clubhouse with his shoelaces still untied.

Whether Rodriguez plays in Tuesday’s All-Star Game could be decided as soon as tonight, depending on how he feels after the game.

“I know we want him in the All-Star Game, but the most important thing is for him to be ready for the second half,” Torre said. “If [the hamstring] is going to be bothering him, it’s probably best that he doesn’t play.”

Brian Cashman concurred with that thinking.

“The All-Star Game is important on a global scale, we understand that,” the Yankees GM said. “But our games are more important.”

Rodriguez, who leads the major leagues with 28 homers and 80 RBIs, sustained the injury while attempting to beat out a double play ball on Monday. In the process, he made contact with Twins first baseman Justin Morneau and tripped.

Torre said Rodriguez was sent for an MRI because he felt soreness as he was attempting to finish his swings on Wednesday.

Miguel Cairo, who replaced Rodriguez at third base in the seventh inning on Wednesday, started there yesterday and went 1-for-4 with an RBI double. That was just one component to a 13-hit attack that included three homers.

Torre said it was important for the Yankees to receive such contributions, regardless of Rodriguez’s status.

“Sometimes when you have a guy who’s been responsible for so much production you sort of rely on him and expect him to be the one carrying you all the time,” Torre said.

“We never want to have that mentality but I think sometimes in the back of your mind you’re waiting for somebody else to do it.”

mpuma@nypost.com