Jeter will only play in minors for rest of spring training

Derek Jeter might miss the Yankees' season opener on April 1 because of a lingering ankle problem.

/AP

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- New York Yankees general manager Brian Cashman says shortstop Derek Jeter will play only in minor league spring training games for the rest of spring training.

The move could cut short how much time Jeter would miss if he starts the season on the 15-day disabled list. By not playing in major league exhibitions, the Yankees want to be able to backdate Jeter's start time on the DL if that's necessary.

Jeter missed his third straight exhibition game Thursday because of inflammation in his surgically repaired left ankle. The 38-year-old captain received an anti-inflammatory injection on Wednesday.

Cashman hasn't ruled out Jeter missing the Yankees' regular season opener April 1 at home against Boston. The GM said he didn't know when Jeter will resume baseball activities.