Yankees Get Much-Needed Cody Bellinger Injury Update

Bellinger expected to return to lineup this week after minor back tightness

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger experienced some back tightness during spring training, but the team says the injury is minor and he is expected to return to the lineup later this week. Bellinger, who signed a $162.5 million contract with the Yankees in the offseason, is a crucial part of the team's lineup and the Yankees are relieved the injury is not serious.

Why it matters

Keeping Bellinger healthy and in the lineup will be a major factor in the Yankees' quest to win a championship this season. As a key offseason acquisition, Bellinger's production is vital to the team's success.

The details

Bellinger's back tightened up on him during a spring training game on Friday, causing him to miss the Yankees' games over the weekend. However, Bellinger said the injury is "very mild" and that he expects to return to live batting practice on Tuesday and be back in the lineup by Thursday when the Yankees face the Minnesota Twins.

  • On Friday, Bellinger's back tightened up, causing him to miss games over the weekend.
  • On Tuesday, Bellinger is expected to take live batting practice.
  • On Wednesday, Bellinger is expected to sit out the Yankees' road trip to Fort Myers, Florida.
  • On Thursday, Bellinger is expected to return to the Yankees' lineup when they face the Minnesota Twins.

The players

Cody Bellinger

A 30-year-old outfielder who signed a $162.5 million contract with the New York Yankees in the offseason and is expected to be a key part of their lineup this season.

New York Yankees

A Major League Baseball team based in the Bronx, New York that is seeking to win a championship this season.

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What they’re saying

“It's honestly very mild. Just ramping up activity and it just tightened up on me a little bit. Really nothing serious. Where we're at on the schedule and not even being March yet (when it happened), take a few days, get right and then I think by the time I get back into games, I'll still be able to have plenty of at-bats to get ready for the season.”

— Cody Bellinger (New York Post)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.