The Rays host a four-game series with the Yankees, but they won't have to worry about facing Alex Rodriguez.

Rodriguez's strained right quadriceps are improving, but after an MRI didn't reveal enough improvement Monday, manager Joe Girardi said he expects the All-Star third baseman out through this week. Rodriguez, who was working out in Tampa, could see some action at extended spring, but Girardi said ARod probably won't be cleared for any time of game action for at least a couple days.

"It's still not where it needs to be," Girardi said.

As for the Rays, there are positive news on the health front. Both RHP Al Reyes and INF Ben Zobrist could be activated Tuesday, with Zobrist getting the pins out of his fractured left thumb this morning. That would mean a few more roster moves could be coming, with Andy Cannizaro (who has options) likely sent down to Durham; though the bullpen switch could be interesting.

Matt Garza will start tonight, coming off arguably his best outing as a Ray in Toronto. The Yankees will start LHP Andy Pettitte, who has typically favored well against the Rays.

RAYS
Iwamura, 2b

Crawford, lf

Upton, cf

Pena, 1b

Longoria, 3b

Gomes, dh

Navarro, c

Hinske, rf

Bartlett, ss

YANKEES

Damon, lf

Jeter, ss

Abreu, rf

Matsui, dh

Giambi, 1b

Cabrera, cf

Cano, 2b

Molina, C

Gonzalez, 3b

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com