TAMPA, Florida — Alex Rodriguez took another step toward returning to the New York Yankees today by playing defense for the first time since right hip surgery in early March.

Rodriguez played third base for five innings in an extended spring training game against Pittsburgh minor leaguers. He had one play, cleaning fielding a one-hopper and then throwing out Gemmy Gonzalez at first base.

Rodriguez called it "an important day" to resume playing in the field and that everything felt good.

The three-time AL MVP said he feels ahead of the Yankees' target return date of May 15. There is a chance Rodriguez could rejoin the team during a weekend series May 8-10 at Baltimore.