Yankees could get Paxton back for upcoming homestand

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone says James Paxton could return to the rotation during the club's May 27 - June 2 homestand, according to Bryan Hoch of MLB.com.

Paxton has been on the injured list since May 4 with a knee ailment. He threw 55 pitches, 42 of which were strikes, over four innings during an extended spring game Friday in Tampa, Fla.

"I understand he felt pretty good today," Boone told reporters Saturday. "I haven't gotten to talk with him yet, but my understanding is he is still pretty good today."

Paxton recorded seven strikeouts in the outing while sporting a protective brace over his left knee.

"If I come in (Saturday) and it feels the same as it did walking in today, then that's just how I'm going to have to pitch for right now," Paxton said Friday.

The big lefty went 3-2 with a 3.11 ERA over seven starts before being shelved. He was acquired in an offseason trade with the Seattle Mariners.

New York will host the San Diego Padres for three contests before welcoming the Boston Red Sox for a four-game set.