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A-Rod, Pettitte getting closer to Yankees return

Pitcher throws simulated game Saturday, while slugger may suit up Sunday

NEW YORK - Injured stars Alex Rodriguez and Andy Pettitte are getting closer to rejoining the New York Yankees.

Pettitte threw 50 pitches in a simulated game Saturday morning at Yankee Stadium and said he had no problems with the strained left groin that has kept him out since July 19.

One of the batters he faced was Rodriguez, sidelined with a strained left calf. The slugger said he's close to being ready to play and will meet with Yankees staff to determine if he'll come off the disabled list Sunday, the first day he's eligible.

Pettitte plans to throw a bullpen session Monday and the next step for him could be a rehab start in a minor league playoff game next week. If all goes well, he could return to the rotation the following week during New York's road trip to Tampa Bay and Baltimore.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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