Aaron Hicks (shoulder) entered Wednesday loss in the ninth inning as a pinch-runner.

Hicks (shoulder) entered Wednesday's loss in the ninth inning as a pinch-runner.

Analysis:

Hicks had been completely unavailable during the previous four games, but his appearance is an encouraging sign as the Yankees can no longer backdate a DL stint. The club has an off day Thursday but is scheduled to face the left-handed Henry Owens on Friday, so it's possible Hicks will return to the lineup then.