Cody Bellinger was absent from the New York Yankees’ starting lineup on Friday afternoon in Pittsburgh due to a “minor” back issue, according to manager Aaron Boone. Bellinger began feeling discomfort the previous day, and following the team’s short flight to Pittsburgh, the Yankees decided to rest him for the game. Boone reassured that it wasn’t a major concern and that Bellinger’s status is day-to-day, with the possibility of him coming off the bench.
Bellinger, 28, has appeared in all six of the Yankees’ games this season, batting .238 with a home run and six RBIs. His role as a consistent hitter and reliable center fielder has been key to the team’s early success, as they currently sit at 4-2. Although Bellinger has dealt with back issues in previous seasons, including missed time in 2021 and 2022, this flare-up appears to be just routine early-season soreness.
With other injury concerns already affecting the team, including Giancarlo Stanton, Luis Gil, and the loss of Gerrit Cole for the season, Boone emphasized that the decision was made out of caution. “He’s just a little stiff,” Boone said, adding that they hope it’s nothing more serious. For the game, Trent Grisham started in center field in Bellinger’s place.
