Cautious ‘setup’ for Robertson

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — Brian Cashman said the news that David Robertson suffered a bruised right foot is positive considering there was no break or fracture of a bone or a torn tendon or ligament. Yet …

“It’s still a gray area,’’ said the general manager, who admitted he doesn’t have a lot of experience with bone bruises and at what pace they heal. “We have to be cautious. I don’t know how long we are talking about.’’

Robertson suffered a bruised right foot Wednesday night when he fell on steps at home while carrying empty boxes.

Initially, the Yankees were concerned Robertson’s injury was more serious.

“The MRI [exam] implied certain things,’’ Cashman said. “Robertson underwent two further tests after the MRI was taken.”

Robertson, who didn’t have a boot on when he arrived in the Yankees’ clubhouse at George M. Steinbrenner Field yesterday morning but was on crutches, will be completely out of the boot by tomorrow. Robertson’s tolerance and pain level will dictate how fast the rehab process will progress.

“I don’t sense he will be out that long,’’ Girardi said. “A bullpen [session], maybe two bullpens before he goes back out there. You want to see how much he needs before [a game].’’

Robertson has worked one inning in one game this spring.

Mariano Rivera will hurl an inning today against the Phillies at GMS Field. It will be Rivera’s first spring appearance.

Valuable utility infielder Eduardo Nunez took batting practice yesterday for the first time since getting hit by a pitch on the right hand Monday against the Phillies, and it didn’t go well.

“He started feeling it, and now we are going to give him a couple of more days [off],’’ said Girardi, who explained no further tests are slated.

Andy Pettitte was in nearby Orlando to give a speech at a church today and bring some of his family to Disney. So, he stopped by Champion Stadium and threw batting practice for the Yankees.

Mark Teixeira was pleased with his 1-for-3 day at the plate in the Yankees’ 8-3 win over the Braves at Champion Stadium.

“I am not trying to lift the ball. One swing, a line drive up the middle, and I walked twice,’’ he said.