Yankees keep A-Rod out of lineup as precaution

NEW YORK -- Alex Rodriguez is out of the New York Yankees' lineup, this time as a precaution after playing two straight games since coming off the disabled list.

Manager Joe Girardi says he's just keeping his slugger fresh as he recovers from a strained left calf. Girardi says he likely will not let Rodriguez play an extended stretch of games for another week.

Rodriguez says he pleaded to play with Girardi and trainers to play Tuesday night against Baltimore, but understands the decision. He is 3 for 7 with a homer and three RBI in his two games back.

Robinson Cano was in the clean-up spot in place of Rodriguez.