Reggie returns, appears in uniform again with Yankees

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Reggie Jackson had little to say Thursday as he appeared in uniform with the Yankees for the first time since making his controversial comments to Sports Illustrated.

"I'm here like you to watch the game," Jackson told reporters in the clubhouse before the game.

Jackson typically is much more verbose with the media but his comments, appearing in last week's Sports Illustrated, caused a firestorm that resulted in the Yankees telling him to temporarily stay away from the team. Conditions of him rejoining the team in Oakland, where Jackson spent the majority of his Hall of Fame career, likely included him keeping public remarks to a minimum.

In the SI story, Jackson was critical of those who have been linked to PED use -- including current Yankees Alex Rodriguez and Andy Pettitte. Jackson also questioned the credentials of several Hall of Famers, including Gary Carter.

Joe Girardi said Jackson's presence was welcome.

"I think it's all behind us," the manager said. "I think that's the most important thing. I think Reg has made a number of calls to try to rectify everything. I'm OK with it. I'm glad he's here. Let's just move on."

Joba on track

Joba Chamberlain is scheduled for a two-inning stint with High-A Tampa Friday in Bradenton. Girardi said while the reliever is progressing steadily, he needs to go back-to-back outings before the prospect of a return becomes real.

"You want to see how he responds the second day," Girardi said. "[But] those 30 days are ticking."

Phelps back

The Yankees recalled RHP David Phelps after Wednesday's game and optioned D.J. Mitchell to Triple-A. Girardi said Phelps could be used anywhere from late-inning mix-and-match reliever to long man.