New York Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain will begin a throwing program today prior to the start of the New York Yankees-Kansas City Royals game at Yankee Stadium.

The team’s training and coaching staffs will observe his workout and determine if he will go back to the starting rotation or return to the bullpen for the last month of the 2008 season. Chamberlain has been sidelined with rotator cuff tendinitis since August 5th, and he is eligible to come off the disabled list this coming Wednesday.

According to the New York Post, Yankees’ starter Joba Chamberlain will be placed on the DL.

The Yankees put the right-hander on the 15-day DL with an injured shoulder before tonight’s game against Texas while awaiting word on a diagnosis from Dr. James Andrews.

The Yankees recalled pitcher Chris Britton from Triple-A, despite the fact he was sent down less than 10 days ago.

A player cannot be recalled after a demotion before 10 days have passed, unless his team needs him to replace an injured player.

Chamberlain is in Pensacola, Fla., today having his right shoulder examined by Dr. James Andrews, is bound for the DL.

A diagnosis from Andrews likely would determine how much time the 22-year-old would miss, and if surgery is required.

That thud you just heard was the Yankees’ playoff hopes.