Mild Setback for Matsui

Although the Yankees have to be happy with Lidle's six-inning performance today as they closed out a series sweep over the Blue Jays, they can't be enthusiastic about the latest report on Hideki Matsui.

X-rays looked good, but Matsui reported feeling some tenderness during his examination.

Knowing his character, you know that if he acknowledges the presence of tenderness, his wrist is nowhere close to being strong enough to take hacks at major league pitches.

Matsui's doctors have decided to have him continue his current rehab regimen for another week. This means that he will continue swinging with only his right hand, using a short, 24-inch bat. He will also continue with all of his regular defensive drills.

Matsui's wrist has to be completely pain-free upon examination for the Yankees to give him the green light for normal hitting drills.

Given how difficult it is for a major league ball player to overcome a wrist injury, Cashman's move to sign Abreu appears to be a prudent one.

We shouldn't be surprised if Sheffield and Matsui don't end up returning this season.

But that's not a terrible thing. With Abreu, Craig Wilson, Melky Cabrera, and a rejuvenated Bernie Williams clicking along with the rest of the band, this year's group seems to be an excellent balance between talent, guts, and motivation.

Team chemistry has never looked this good.

- Joshua
InsideTheYankees.com