MILWAUKEE – Ever wonder what the definition of a gamer is?

It’s Tom Gordon last night at Miller Park, where the Yankees went into a game against the Brewers having dropped six of seven.

Gordon, who experienced a tender right biceps muscle after hurling two innings Saturday night, was asked if he was available.

“We need wins,” said the veteran right-hander and a vital cog to Joe Torre’s bullpen. “We are trying to fight through this. This is not a good time for a player to not feel good. [Sunday] it felt better and today it’s better than that.”

About the only area you can’t blame for the Yankees’ losing seven of eight was late relief. Of course, Mariano Rivera and Gordon haven’t been used much in the losses.

Gordon has allowed just three runs in his last 17 appearances and none in his last seven. Rivera has converted 13 straight save chances.

Gordon, who was concerned following Saturday night’s game, has a clear mind.

“I am not alarmed about it,” said the 37-year-old Gordon, who was tied for second in appearances with 28 going into last night’s action among AL pitchers.

“The other day it was something to think about. I don’t think it is something to be concerned with because we got control of it.’

Proof that Gordon had progressed through treatments with the training staff was that Torre said Gordon was available. Sunday, Torre said Gordon was a question mark.

According to Gordon the problem surfaced in spring training and stayed away until Saturday.

*

Carl Pavano (4-4; 4.50 ERA) draws RHP Ben Sheets (1-5; 4.34) tonight. Mike Mussina (5-4; 4.32) faces LHP Chris Capuano (5-4; 3.01) tomorrow night.