Yankees News: Gardner update, Robertson’s back, Phelps down and Torre to manage Team USA

The New York Yankees finally provided a complete update with Brett Gardner‘s injury status. He’ll be out for at another three to four weeks after multiple examinations revealed a strained right elbow, bone bruising and joint inflammation.

Gardner received a platelet-rich plasma and cortisone shot from Dr. Timothy Kremchek, the Cincinnati Reds orthopedist, who performed the most recent check-up on the outfielder’s elbow. Gardner had seen Dr. James Andrews on Monday and the two doctors came to the same conclusion, that surgery is not required, but recommended extended rest. Had Gardner needed surgery he would be looking at a lost season and possibly part of another. His elbow is being immobilized with a brace to ensure it is not stressed during the time period.

Expect the Yankees to take it slow with Gardner who has already had two setbacks since he hit the disabled list in April 17th.

Robertson’s addition sends Phelps to minors

David Robertson was activated yesterday from the 15-day disabled list and will be ready to pitch tonight in Washington if needed. David Phelps took the hit on the roster. He will be sent to Single-A Tampa where he will get stretched out before returning to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Torre to manage Team USA in 2013 World Baseball Classic

Former Yankees manager Joe Torre has been named the manager of Team USA for the 2013 World Baseball Classic. He takes over the role from Washington Nationals manager Davey Johnson. Team USA has never finished higher than fourth in the competition (4th and 6th place finishes). Torre said this position will not get him active in future MLB managerial openings.

Managing is in your system. I don’t want to do it as a full-time job … but this is a unique opportunity. You put on the uniform, and there’s a ‘USA’ across the chest. That’s a different kind of pressure.

Torre vowed to get players into and keep them in shape while training for the team, something he took issue with when managing the Yankees. He expressed the need to begin training earlier in order to be able to fully compete with teams from other countries.

Dates and locations for the tournament have yet to be set.

Later today

Andrew Corselli will look at a survey taken by some MLB players which named Alex Rodriguez and Nick Swisher among the most hated players in baseball.