masn-baseballs-orioles.jpgTAMPA – Johan Santana, signed to a minor league deal earlier this month, remains encouraged by the condition of his left shoulder and the progress he’s making in his throwing program.

“Once I get into the routine of baseball and doing everything with the team, but also with the trainers, it’s definitely much better,” he said. “I’m feeling good so far.”

Santana is throwing off flat ground from 120 feet, “just to make sure it feels good,” he said.

“Actually, what we’re trying to do…TAMPA – Johan Santana, signed to a minor league deal earlier this month, remains encouraged by the condition of his left shoulder and the progress he’s making in his throwing program.

“Once I get into the routine of baseball and doing everything with the team, but also with the trainers, it’s definitely much better,” he said. “I’m feeling good so far.”

Santana is throwing off flat ground from 120 feet, “just to make sure it feels good,” he said.

“Actually, what we’re trying to do now is increasing the volume of throws that we do every session. We’re building that up. And then, we’re going to get on the mound pretty soon.”

Santana, recovering from a second surgery on his left shoulder capsule, can earn $3 million if added to the 40-man roster and has the chance to make $5.05 million in bonuses based on days on the active roster and starts.

Santana can make $2.1 million in bonuses based on days on the active roster and $2.95 million based on starts.

The Orioles included a May 30 opt-out clause in Santana’s contract. They’ve expressed optimism that he can be ready to pitch for them by the beginning of June.

Here’s the Yankees’ lineup for today’s game against the Orioles in Tampa:

Brett Gardner CF
Derek Jeter SS
Carlos Beltran DH
Brian McCann C
Alfonso Soriano LF
Eduardo Nunez 3B
Dean Anna 2B
Zoilo Almonte RF
Russ Canzler 1B

Michael Pineda RHP