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© St. Petersburg Times, published February 27, 2002
TAMPA -- Yankees outfielder Rondell White strained his left rib cage swinging a bat Tuesday.
It was not immediately known how long White will be sidelined, but manager Joe Torre said 10 days or longer was a possibility.
"I think we'll know tomorrow," Torre said. "A rib cage (injury), it really shuts you down. It eliminates throwing and swinging."
White said he felt soreness in his left side while hitting in an indoor batting cage.
White signed a $10-million, two-year deal as a free agent during the offseason. He has been on the disabled list eight times in his major-league career, and has played in 189 games the past three seasons.
"He's a regular on the team if he's healthy," Torre said. "If something like this happens now, you have a lot of time to get well."
POSADA ON TARGET: The news is much better regarding catcher Jorge Posada, who is coming off shoulder surgery.
Posada threw to second and third base Monday, and said he felt good one day later.
"No doubt about it," said Posada, when asked about being ready for opening day.
"I think I'm doing better than I thought. I'm feeling real good. Hopefully, there are no setbacks."
Posada signed a $51-million, five-year contract during the offseason.
GIAMBI IMPROVING: First baseman Jason Giambi reported his injured left hamstring was better. He took part in pregame drills, but missed his second intrasquad game.
Torre said Giambi should play in an exhibition game Friday or Saturday.
"It feels a lot better today," Giambi said. "I'm trying to be on the safe side and not overdo it. We just want to keep it getting better."
BACK TO WORK: Former first baseman Don Mattingly was back in uniform and said his ailing back is getting better.