"That trip to the disabled list might turn out to be the most important three weeks of Derek Jeter's season.

Jeter has played 26 games since returning from the disabled list, in which he is hitting .321 (34-for-106) with two homers and 17 RBIs. Mark Teixeira said he believes Jeter's bat has awoken because the Yankees captain was able to revive himself while on the shelf.

"He's refreshed," Teixeira said before the Yankees' 3-2 win over the Red Sox last night. "I've always said sometimes stints on the disabled list aren't bad at all. . . . Sometimes a few weeks off is great for a player."

Teixeira's theory is based upon the relentlessness of a long baseball season and the desirability of an in- season respite.

Jeter, who returned from the DL on July 4 after being out with a calf strain, entered the crucial series against the Red Sox in the midst of a scorching stretch.

In his last 14 games -- against the Rays Athlet ics, Mariners, Orioles, White Sox and Red Sox -- Jeter is bat ting .358 (19-for-53) and hadn't been just collecting sin gles. He had racked up six ex tra-base hits and 12 RBIs while also drawing six walks.

"I see it as bat speed," Teixeira said. "Since he's come back from the DL, he's been impressive.""