Alex Rodriguez may be able to begin playing in minor league games on Friday after making progress during Saturday's workout in Tampa. Asked the earliest the third baseman could start a rehab assignment, general manager Brian Cashman said "the 12th." How many games Rodriguez would need before being ready to come off the disabled list will be determined by how the third baseman feels and plays in minor league games. Rodriguez, who had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee on July 11, hasn't played since July 7.