A-Rod 'having fun' as he works his way back

BALTIMORE -- Alex Rodriguez said on Saturday that he "can't wait to get back" into the lineup, but he's not sure when he will begin a Minor League rehab assignment.

"So far, no issues," Rodriguez told the Associated Press in Tampa, Fla. "I'm just working really hard. I'm having fun. It's exciting to be back on the field."

Rodriguez has been facing live pitching at the Yankees' complex as he returns from January surgery on his left hip. He also is fielding grounders, running the bases and doing sliding drills.

"I feel like my swing is definitely getting back to form," he said, "[and I'm defensively] moving better the last few days. Everything is coming along."

Rodriguez is "absolutely" fine with the Yankees following this week's events, which included a verbal rebuke by general manager Brian Cashman after Rodriguez said on Twitter that he had been cleared to begin playing in games.

Rodriguez and Cashman later conducted a conference call to clear the air, with team president Randy Levine also on the call.

"Ready to get back on the field," Rodriguez said. "All good."