Yankees scratch Hughes from start

Bronx, NY – The New York Yankees have scratched Phil Hughes from his scheduled start Wednesday because of back spasms.

Hughes was slated to take the ball for the opening game of a split doubleheader against Tampa Bay. He was originally scheduled to pitch Monday in a makeup game against Minnesota, but was also pulled from that outing because of the back issue.

"He's still not where he needs to be. He's still just not ready to go," said Yankees manager Joe Girardi on Wednesday, adding that the back problems for Hughes began after a bullpen session over the weekend in Toronto. "It's just kind of lingered on."

Hector Noesi was given start for Wednesday's first game.

Girardi added that Hughes would try to pitch another bullpen session before it is decided when, or if, the right-hander will make another start before the end of the regular season.

Hughes, an 18-game winner in 2010, has battled injuries all season and owns a record of just 5-5 with a 6.00 earned run average in 15 games, including 14 starts. He was on the disabled list from the end of April through June with arm fatigue.