Johnson May Sit Next Start

New York Yankee left-hander Randy Johnson had an MRI exam that showed inflammation of the lumbar spine and will be re-evaluated today.

If the Big Unit can’t make his next turn, the Yankees will need to find a starter for Thursday night against Texas.

Manager Joe Torre said it would not be Hideo Nomo, who made his second start last Saturday with triple-A Columbus and would be on full rest Thursday.

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The Boston Red Sox recalled third baseman Kevin Youkilis from triple-A Pawtucket and designated outfielder Jose Cruz Jr. for assignment.

Cruz was acquired 10 days earlier in a trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks and went three for 12 with no homers and no RBIs in four games.