Manager Joe Maddon said he wouldn't count on Evan Longoria returning in time for the Yankees series (next Tuesday through Thursday at the Trop).

The All-Star third baseman has been rehabbing a fractured right wrist; he threw again Saturday afternoon and has been swinging with a broomstick, but Maddon doesn't know if Longoria will be ready to go for the rest of the homestand.

"I would say probably not - it doesn't look really hopeful," Maddon said. "I wouldn't count on it. I'm not saying it won't happen, but I won't count on it."

When Longoria was placed on the disabled list Aug 11 after getting hit by a pitch in the Seattle series, the Rays initially estimated he could return on or around Sept. 1. But Maddon said Longoria would probably have to do live batting practice at least two to three days before he plays in an actual game, and the Rays haven't discussed that part of his progression.

"I've been antsy from day one, but what can I do?" Longoria said. "If I re-injure this, it's going to be worse and I'll end up being out the whole season anyway. I'm close to coming back, it's just that we're playing well anyway right now, so there's no need for me to rush back."

The Rays are 12-5 in a recent stretch with Longoria, Troy Percival and Carl Crawford on the DL.

-- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com