Yankees righthander CC Sabathia has had two stints on the disabled list this season, once in June with a groin strain, then again last week with an elbow injury that was originally defined as just “tightness”. Clearly, the Yankees want to keep their ace ready and healthy for the postseason.

He’s beginning work on coming back:

Sabathia said left elbow felt good after throwing off flat ground for first time since going on DL Sunday. Still expects to pitch Aug. 24.

— Dan Martin (@DanMartin_Post) August 16, 2012

So this DL stint will last the minimum time, 15 days; the previous one lasted a bit longer, from June 27 till right after the All-Star break. And yet, the Yankees keep going without their ace: they went 10-6 the first time he was on the DL, and since this stint began, they’re 7-1 with about a week remaining until he pitches against the Indians.

Not fair, say the other teams, but the Yankees just keep on going.

For more on the Yankees, please visit Pinstripe Alley and SB Nation New York.