Jeter is injured in Yankees’ 12-2 loss

NEW YORK -- Just when the slumping New York Yankees got Alex Rodriguez back, Derek Jeter went down with an injury that nearly led to a brawl with Baltimore.

Adam Jones hit a three-run double during Baltimore’s seven-run first inning against Mike Mussina, and the Orioles beat New York, 12-2, Tuesday night in a testy game that included a late home run by Rodriguez in his return from the disabled list.

The Orioles took advantage of a two-out throwing error by Jeter in the first inning to build a big cushion for Daniel Cabrera (5-1), who handed the last-place Yankees (20-25) their season-high fourth consecutive loss and sixth in seven games. New York has been outscored, 30-8, during the first three games of the homestand.

“I’m hoping this is rock bottom,” Manager Joe Girardi said. “It’s an ugly loss and you’ve just got to put this one aside.”

With Baltimore up, 9-0, in the third inning, Cabrera hit Jeter on the left hand with a pitch. Girardi and a trainer came out to check on Jeter, who was removed. X-rays were negative, and Jeter is day to day because of a bruised hand.