Posada's return to catching could come Tuesday

BALTIMORE - Jorge Posada had what Joe Girardi described as a "good day" yesterday, but he still wasn't prepared to give a timetable for the catcher's return to behind-the-plate duties.

"As far as having a target date of when he would catch, we'll just take it day by day, but we like what we see," Girardi said before last night's game.

Posada participated in catching drills for the second time since returning from the disabled list and will do so again with bench coach Tony Peña before tonight's game.

Girardi said he has a date in mind for Posada's return, with Tuesday's series opener against the Phillies, which comes after an off day Monday, making the most sense. Still, Girardi wouldn't rule out this weekend, either.

"I'll talk to Geno and the doctor when we get back tomorrow and then we'll make a decision," Girardi said.

Posada entered last night 3-for-23, which Girardi attributed to not having any rehab at-bats. "I think his timing is a little bit off but the more at-bats he gets, he'll get it back," Girardi said.

Gardner to have MRI

Brett Gardner, whose left thumb flared up Tuesday and who had X-rays - which were negative - Wednesday, will still have a precautionary MRI today.

"Gardy is better today so Geno was encouraged by that," Girardi said. "Maybe we'll have him this weekend."

Gardner pinch ran and scored after stealing a base Wednesday night. 

Aceves report

There seemed to be a little progress with Alfredo Aceves, on the DL since May 12 with a strained lower back.

"He's still just doing rehab with the therapist," Girardi said. "Geno wants to talk to the doctor tomorrow and see if he can start doing more with us on Monday. See if he can start possibly throwing."