Bill

Mueller

Ellis Burks (knee) went 0-for-2 in the same game. Both players are hoping to return to the active major league roster by or before July 4th. In fact, there is a chance that Mueller could be back in Boston this Friday.

The hope is that Mueller just bruised the knee, and that he will need to sit out only a few days. Of course, there is a chance he may have damaged the ligament and/or cartilage. Mueller missed 37 games after undergoing arthroscopic surgery on the same knee at the end of May. Until Mueller is able to return to action, Kevin Youkilis will start at thrid base for Boston.

Too bad for Boston as Mueller usually murders New York pitching.

He has hit .326 since he returned from arthroscopic knee surgery on July 2nd. Mueller’s strong play has kept rookie Kevin Youkilis firmly on the bench. The youngster has started just one game since his recall on September 1st.

Mark Bellhorn started at third base and Cesar Crespo at second. Mueller, who had started in 16 consecutive games, did enter the game in the eighth inning as a pinch hitter. He should be back in the starting lineup this evening.

It was initially thought to be a month before Mueller could resume ''baseball activities,’' but he may be back on the field as soon as March 10 and should be ready for Opening Day. There’s no need for Boston to rush Mueller back with Kevin Youkilis able to sub for him at third base and he may get some days off early on.

He did everything except take grounders. Mueller probably won’t participate in the first week of spring games, but he seems well ahead of schedule.

Mueller was available to pinch hit last night.

Mueller could return as soon as today.

Mueller had only played once since March 20 due to a mild hyperextension of his right elbow. The problem isn’t expected to linger into the regular season.