Yankees Notes: Phil Hughes, Derek Jeter, A.J. Burnett and Alfredo Aceves

Yesterday was a showdown between two young starters with 9-1 records. The Yankees' Phil Hughes came out on topas the Yanks beat the Mets 5-3 . Now 10-1, Hughes looks like a strong candidate for the All-Star game.

Here are some notes:

• Unfortunately for Hughes he may not be able to pitch in the All-Star game because of a new rule that says pitchers who pitch the Sunday before the game are ineligible. Hughes is currently lined up to pitch that Sunday .
• No word yet on if he'll play today, but Derek Jeter sat out yesterday’s game against the Mets because of a sore heel.
• AJ Burnett has been dealing with a bruised foot, but said that he feels fine after his most recent bullpen session and he expects to make his next start.
• If Burnett fails to start Monday, RHP’s Chad Gaudin and Ivan Nova are candidates to replace him .
• Alfredo Aceves (back) threw off a half mound yesterday. It’s another step in his rehab that currently has no timetable.
• Marcus Thames has been hitting in the batting cages. It is possible that he’ll come off the 15-day DL as soon as he is eligible.

The Yankees are still hurting with Aceves out as he really hasn’t been replaced since he landed on the DL. Thames’ return will also be helpful as Huffman appears over-matched in his first stint in the majors.

Also, the Yankees may decide that it is best for the team to have Hughes skip the Sunday before the All-Star game. That way he’ll only pitch about one inning during the game and otherwise have a nice break for his young arm.

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