Injury to sideline Damon further

Johnny Damon said his sore left shoulder, which has kept him out of Team USA's starting lineup in the last two games in the World Baseball Classic, likely will prevent him from playing the field Thursday and could jeopardize his eligibility for the next round of the tournament, if the US advances. Damon’s shoulder – his throwing shoulder – started bothering him several days ago and he discussed the injury with Yankee GM Brian Cashman Sunday after pinch-hitting in Team USA's victory over Japan and Damon said Cashman thought "it was a good idea" if Damon took a break from throwing.

Damon said the injury "is just a problem for the short-term. Long-term, I’m good, but we’re playing it safe. Obviously, I would love to be in there and do what I can, but we’ve got to wait, which kind of stinks. "It's just spring training tired. As much as I want to push, I know Cash and George (Steinbrenner) don't." Continue