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Yankees to activate Alex Rodriguez for start of series vs. Blue Jays

OAKLAND, Calif. -- The New York Yankees plan to activate designated hitter Alex Rodriguez from the disabled list Tuesday when the team begins a three-game homestand against Toronto.

There had been speculation that Rodriguez -out since May 4 with a strained right hamstring -- might be activated Saturday. But manager Joe Girardi decided against that after the three-time AL MVP went through a full day of rehab.

"It makes sense probably to give him a couple extra days," Girardi said. "He wouldn't have played today anyway because he did so much yesterday. So really you're weighing one day, and one day gets him a couple extra days."

Rodriguez was batting .194 with five home runs and 12 RBI. The 14-time All-Star was eligible to come off the DL on Thursday, but the Yankees opted to give him additional time for rehab. New York has an off day Monday.

Rodriguez took batting practice before Saturday's game at Oakland and was scheduled to run as well.

Carlos Beltran has thrived in the DH spot during Rodriguez's absence. Beltran had three doubles and three RBIs in Friday's 8-3 victory and a home run, double and three more RBIs in Thursday's 4-1 win.

Girardi said on Friday night that Rodriguez would resume being the everyday DH upon his return.

ESPN's Wallace Matthews and the Associated Press contributed to this report.