Cody Bellinger was absent from the New York Yankees’ starting lineup on Friday in Pittsburgh due to a “minor” back issue, according to manager Aaron Boone. Bellinger began feeling discomfort the day before, and with the team arriving in Pittsburgh early Friday morning, the Yankees decided to give him the day off. Boone reassured reporters, including Greg Joyce from the New York Post, that it wasn’t a serious concern, stating, “I don’t think it’s anything big.”
Although Bellinger wasn’t in the lineup, he could still be available off the bench as his status is day-to-day. The 28-year-old outfielder had started every game so far this season, batting .238 with a home run and six RBIs. His solid presence in the middle of the order and steady defense in center field have contributed to the Yankees’ strong 4–2 start to the season.
Bellinger has previously dealt with back issues, missing time in 2021 and 2022 due to various side and back injuries. While this current issue seems to be early-season soreness, the Yankees have had their fair share of injury concerns already this season, with Giancarlo Stanton and Luis Gil starting the season on the injured list, and Gerrit Cole now lost for the season.
Boone emphasized that the decision to sit Bellinger was a precautionary one, not an indication of a major injury. “He’s just a little stiff,” Boone said. “Hopefully nothing more than that.” For Friday’s game, the Yankees began their three-game series in Pittsburgh with Max Fried taking the mound, and Boone opted to have Trent Grisham start in center field.
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