Joe Girardi won't commit to anything, but it now sounds like Ivan Nova could start on Sunday in place of Freddy Garcia. During his pregame media session, Girardi said that "no decision" has been made about Nova's return.

Still, Girardi didn't give a ringing endorsement for Garcia when asked to evaluate his performance.

"He's been a guy who hasn't been able to get through the fifth for us," Girardi said. "He did in Tampa the other day. We know what Freddy is going to do, he is going to compete."

Garcia went 5 1/3 in Tampa this week. In his previous two starts he was taken out in the fifth. Before that, he went nine straight starts in which he lasted at least five innings.

Nova, who is eligible and ready to come off the DL from his inflamed shoulder, could slot in instead of Garcia on Sunday. On Thursday, Girardi wouldn't commit to Nova for the rotation, but now it seems like he will probably be back by Sunday.

The New York Post first reported Nova could start Sunday.

* Andy Pettitte will throw his simulated game on Saturday and is scheduled for a doctor's appointment Monday.