BALTIMORE -- For the second straight game, right fielder J.D. Drew was out of the lineup last night with back stiffness.

Manager Terry Francona said yesterday afternoon that Drew is improving.

Also on the injury front, shortstop Julio Lugo (quadriceps tear) is also progressing.

Lugo said yesterday there’s a chance he could make a rehab appearance within a week, but Francona said that may be pushing it a little bit.

“That shows that he’s feeling better,” said the manager. “But that might be a little optimistic.”

-JOE McDONALD