David

Adams

Adams batted .370/.421/.509 over 29 games in an injury-shortened 2011 season. The former third-round pick has little in the way of tools but profiles as a solid backup at the major league level.

Adams, 24, was limited to just 29 games this past season due to a nagging ankle injury, but the Yankees still elected to protect him from this December’s Rule 5 Draft. “He’s still rehabbing,” said Yankees senior vice president of baseball operations Mark Newman. “We’ll see how it goes. We’re hopeful. He works his rear end off. He’s a fabulous guy, and he’s got ability.” The 2008 third-round pick has an impressive .291/.375/.447 batting line in the minors, but hasn’t played anything close to a full season since 2009.

Because he was re-signed before the end of spring training, Adams isn’t eligible to be added to the 40-man roster until May 15. The Yankees are dealing with multiple injuries, so he’ll provide some much needed infield depth. Adams is hitting .325/.411/.494 with two home runs in 23 games at the Triple-A level this season.

The Yankees have yet to announce a corresponding roster move. Adams, who turned 26 on Wednesday, was batting .316/.407/.490 with three home runs and 12 RBI through 27 games in Triple-A this season. He’ll provide infield depth while the Yankees try to make it through some recent injuries.

Adams has been a pleasant surprise as a stopgap option at third base for the Bombers, hitting .323 (10-for-31) with two homers, two doubles and three RBI in eight games. Keep running him out there in AL-only leagues, but Kevin Youkilis (back) appears on track to return from the disabled list late next week.

It’s a way to get both Kevin Youkilis and David Adams in the lineup while also giving Cano a bit of a breather. Travis Hafner is sitting against the southpaw Scott Kazmir.

Not a huge surprise with Scott Kazmir on the hill for Cleveland. Robinson Cano is serving as the DH on Tuesday while David Adams plays second base.

Adams is 6-for-18 in five games since being called up Wednesday. It looks like he’ll get the nod over Jayson Nix at third base until Kevin Youkilis returns. Nix will still play shortstop against left-handers.

David Adams is making the start at third base against right-hander Justin Masterson. Youkilis is 1-for-9 with an RBI and a walk since returning from the disabled list.

“He’s rehabbing currently some back issues,” Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said. “So he’ll start behind in big league camp.” Adams missed most of two seasons with a persistent ankle injury, and the back ailment won’t help his chances at landing an Opening Day bench spot.