Pettitte out after four innings in simulated game

Yankees starting pitcher Andy Pettitte lasted four innings during Wednesday’s simulated game according to The Boston Globe’s Nick Cafardo:

Andy Pettite's simulated game at Fenway seems to be over after four innings.—
Nick Cafardo (@nickcafardo) September 12, 2012

Pettitte fractured his left ankle when a line drive struck him during a game on June 27 against the Indians. Before the simulated game, Manager Joe Girardi told the NY Post that Pettitte had a good chance of returning to the rotation if he could make it through about 60 pitches without any major issues.

“It depends on how his leg feels after 60 pitches,’’ Girardi said when asked about Pettitte appearing in a game. “If we feel he can move around and compete enough in a game, it’s conceivable.’’

Pettitte was 3-3 with a 3.22 ERA in 9 games prior to the injury. David Phelps would move to the bullpen to make room for Pettitte.