updated 10:57 a.m. ET Feb. 26, 2007

TAMPA, Fla. - Yankees center fielder Johnny Damon rejoined the team Monday after a two-day excused absence to tend to a personal matter.

Damon spent the weekend at home with his family in the Orlando area. He didn’t discuss specifics, but said the issue has been resolved. He said it did not involve his father or infant daughter, who was born in January.

“Everything is great,” he said. “Fortunately a little personal matter that I had take to care of was in February and not in June or July or anytime during the season. I feel a lot better today than a couple days ago. Something was worrying me and I took care of it. It’s a non-issue now.”

Damon received permission to leave after talking with general manager Brian Cashman and manager Joe Torre following Friday’s workout.

“I am a better and stronger person today and I believe those two days were key to me,” Damon said. “It’s time to get ready to play baseball. My mind is clear. It’s all about baseball now.”

Notes: The Yankees announced that the MRI exam and X-rays taken Sunday on RHP Carl Pavano’s injured left foot showed a bone bruise. He was hit on the foot by a liner during batting practice Saturday.

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