Ivan Nova feeling better, probable for next start

TORONTO -- The pronounced limp is gone and Ivan Nova declared himself a go for Saturday's scheduled start.

Joe Girardi wasn't quite ready to make that declaration but likes what he's seen.

"We'll see how it is today but I think we're going to be fine," Nova said before doing some light running on the field. "I feel really good."

Nova left Monday's start in Baltimore in the sixth inning with a contusion and sprain of his right foot and ankle. He was in noticeable pain after the game but has gradually improved, and the plan is for him to throw a side session Thursday.

"He came through the running fine, he feels better," Girardi said. "And even if he doesn't throw a bullpen [today] I wouldn't rule out his start . . . He does feel better, he's going in the right direction and we'll just have to wait and see."

Lawrie disciplined

A popular topic among Yankees Wednesday was what kind of suspension Blue Jays third baseman Brett Lawrie would get for spiking his batting helmet, which hit plate umpire Bill Miller on Tuesday night.

The consensus was that Lawrie, who received a four-game suspension, would get 7-10 games. Lawrie appealed the suspension and started Wednesday night at third base.

Jeter gets a day off

Derek Jeter received his first full day off Wednesday. "We're in the midst of 16 in a row," Girardi said. "You give him today [off] and maybe . . . give him a DH day somewhere against Kansas City."

After this weekend's three-game series against the Reds, the Royals are in town for three games starting Monday.

"I'm fine," Jeter said with a smile.

Hughes turning corner?

Phil Hughes, coming off his best start of the season Saturday against the Mariners, starts tonight against righthander Drew Hutchinson (2-1, 5.53).

"I just think he's a better pitcher than what he showed and eventually, he was going to get to where he should be," Girardi said.