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.

"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."

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.

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.

"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.