DETROIT -- An already unfortunate ALCS for the Yankees just got worse: Game 3 starter Phil Hughes left the game in the fourth inning because of what's being reported as a herniated disk in his back. The Yankees, however, are calling it a "stiff back."

Hughes was replaced by David Phelps with two strikes on Jhonny Peralta. Earlier in the inning, Hughes gave up a go-ahead solo homer to Delmon Young and then a 5-pitch walk to Andy Dirks.

Hughes suffered a similar injury as a minor-leaguer in 2004. 

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