Until that pain is gone, Key will not pitch again.

Key pitched last Wednesday and five days before that so he is on the typical rotation.

Sure, Key could rebound and pitch gloriously in his next start.

Key pitched this latest one, too, and after needing 5:29 to play 2:59, the Yankees won, 3-1.

Key, who retired after 15 years in the major leagues in 1998, pitched for the Yankees from 1993 to 1996.

Key (11-6) pitched a six-hitter, walked one and struck out four in eight innings.

Key has already pitched 211 2/3 innings, just five shy of his 1992 season total with Toronto.

Key has not pitched more than 216 2/3 innings since 1987.

Key is older and crafty and pitching purists will love him.

Key, who struggled with arm problems last season, pitched seven innings and gave up four hits and two runs.