The Yankees' biggest stars were ailing before Wednesday's game against the Mariners, with New York leading the AL East by 6 1/2 games over the Red Sox entering play. Right-hander Mike Mussina went on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right groin one day after the Yankees said they expected him to miss only one start. They also sent third baseman Alex Rodriguez back to the team hotel with a throat infection. His status for Thursday's series finale was unknown. And Jason Giambi had his sore left hamstring wrapped before starting at designated hitter instead of at first base.