Ellsbury tests knee, reports no problems

BALTIMORE -- Jacoby Ellsbury tested his right knee on the first-base line at Camden Yards on Friday afternoon, running at an estimated 60 percent, but the Yankees may not have the outfielder back in the big league lineup until next month.

Ellsbury has been on the 15-day disabled list since sustaining a right knee strain on May 19 at Washington, and the Yankees have provided a loose timetable of five to six weeks from the date of injury. General manager Brian Cashman said that he expects Ellsbury to return before the July 14 All-Star Game.

Yankees manager Joe Girardi said that Ellsbury ran, threw and hit during Friday's workout, which was observed by Girardi, head athletic trainer Steve Donohue, bench coach Rob Thomson and strength and conditioning coach Matt Krause.

Girardi said that Ellsbury reported no problems. Ellsbury did not speak to reporters.

"He'll continue to increase," Girardi said. "The good thing is he felt good again today."

Ellsbury will travel with the Yankees to Miami after Sunday's game and then is expected to continue his rehab at the team's complex in Tampa, Fla., where the goal is to begin playing in Minor League contests.

"It's possible," Cashman said. "Every day in the rehab process gives you a little more idea if you're getting closer or it takes more time."