The Yankees' chase of the Blue Jays for first place in the American League East just got a little more difficult.
New York announced Friday that first baseman Mark Teixeira was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a bone bruise on his right shin. The move was retroactive to Aug. 27, meaning the first baseman will be eligible to return Sept. 11.
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The Yankees recalled right-handed reliever Nick Rumbelow from Triple-A.
The move wasn't a surprise given Teixeira has started just once since fouling a ball off his shin Aug. 17. The 35-year-old's recovery has been slower than expected. He was originally listed as "day to day" by the team, but earlier this week was seen walking on crutches.
Teixeira's absence is a big one for the Yankees, who trail Toronto by a game and a half entering this weekend's series against the Rays. Teixeira is having his best season since 2009, hitting .255 with a .906 OPS. He leads the team in home runs (31) and RBIs (79).