If a published report on Friday that questioned Greg Bird's desire to return from a lingering foot injury angered the first baseman, he hid it well.
Joe Girardi said if he were on the receiving end of such a report, he might not be as successful.
"I don't think I'd be too happy about it," Girardi said. "Because I think only the player knows. I'd be a little bit upset about someone questioning my desire, my integrity."
The report contained an anonymous quote, attributed to a club "insider," that essentially said Bird isn't doing all he can to return from the right ankle bone bruise that has sidelined him since May 2. Oddly, the quote was buried low in the story and there was no mention of Bird playing almost the entire 2015 season with a shoulder injury.
"I want to play. I've always wanted to play since I can remember," Bird said. "I love baseball, so for me, I'm doing everything I can to get back. I love it and I want to be playing with these guys. I would hope people see that."
