Yankees rookie SS George Lombard Jr. avoided structural knee damage after tweaking his right knee during a checked swing Saturday, though he remains day-to-day with inflammation and soreness. The 21-year-old, promoted Aug. 4 to replace Anthony Volpe, started every game since his promotion and batted .253 with two homers and a .677 OPS. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed no structural issues but emphasized the need to reduce discomfort and swelling before determining his availability for Sunday's game against the Red Sox. Jose Caballero started at shortstop Sunday, and Lombard's bench status remains undecided.

Volpe, now in Triple-A, has shifted to third base to increase defensive versatility after starting at shortstop and second base earlier in the season. He is a candidate to rejoin the Yankees when rosters expand Tuesday. Meanwhile, star Aaron Judge, out since May 31 with a fractured rib, is progressing through rehab with batting practice and plans to increase intensity before returning. The Yankees begin a six-game West Coast road trip Monday in Anaheim against the Angels. Lombard, a top prospect, has made several excellent plays but recently committed errors in six consecutive games.