The Yankees also are missing Carl Pavano (tightness in his right arm) and Mike Mussina (strained left hamstring).

Kakha Kaladze is also doing better. He is suffering from a thigh injury. The condition is improving but will need another few weeks before he is to being available.

The Azzurri suffered a double blow during the week, when Fabio Grosso was forced to pull out with a thigh strain and Simone Perrotta was also injured during training on Wednesday.