Yankees’ Cody Bellinger Out with Back Injury, Hopeful for Quick Return

A sudden back issue has put another New York Yankee on the sidelines as Cody Bellinger will miss a couple of games due to discomfort. Manager Aaron Boone reported that Bellinger’s back “went out on him a little bit” on Friday, prompting his absence from Saturday’s 5-1 victory over the Blue Jays at Steinbrenner Field. The Yankees are optimistic that Bellinger could return to action by Tuesday, following a scheduled off-day on Monday.

Boone provided a glimmer of hope, stating, “He’ll probably be, I’m guessing, a couple days. He was quite a bit better today. Trainers aren’t too concerned about it. And this is something that crops up on him every now and then, usually sometime in spring or early in the year.” The 30-year-old outfielder has participated in three games so far this spring, with his last appearance occurring on Thursday.

Last April, Bellinger faced a similar back issue, which resulted in him missing two games. That situation turned out to be minor, and the Yankees are hopeful for a similar outcome this time around.

Meanwhile, Cam Schlittler, who had been slowed down earlier in camp by an inflamed back, has resumed his training regimen and is expected to throw another live batting practice session on Sunday. Giancarlo Stanton is also on the verge of making his spring debut, scheduled for Tuesday when the Yankees host Panama at Steinbrenner Field. The veteran designated hitter has been eased into game action to maintain his health for the long season ahead.

Stanton continues to manage discomfort from tennis elbow in both arms but remains active in practice, including fielding ground balls in right field on Saturday morning. As the Yankees navigate these minor setbacks, the spotlight also shines on Gerrit Cole, who has faced hitters for the second time in his rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery. General Manager Brian Cashman expressed optimism about Cole’s progress, saying, “There’s twists and turns to rehab — you have good days, you have bad days — it feels like he’s had nothing but good days, which is fantastic.”

Cashman acknowledged the uncertainty that comes with recovery at an older age, but added, “Even if everything goes perfect, sometimes the velocity’s not there after they come back. But right now, it looks good.”

In other news, Amed Rosario was scratched from Saturday’s lineup due to travel related to the World Baseball Classic, opting for live batting practice instead of a single at-bat in the game. Additionally, Ryan Yarbrough, who was sick on Friday, will see his next outing delayed after starting a game last Monday.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.