The New York Yankees are facing an unexpected injury setback as their starting first baseman, a former National League MVP, was expected to return to action on Wednesday after leaving Monday’s spring training game with a back issue. However, Yankees manager Aaron Boone provided a concerning update, stating that the player’s return is now delayed until Friday, contingent on him completing baseball activities without issue on Thursday. This development adds another layer of uncertainty to an already injury-riddled spring training for the team.
The first baseman had initially expressed confidence that the injury wouldn’t keep him from Opening Day, telling reporters that he wasn’t worried about missing the start of the season. After leaving Monday’s game following just three innings, he cited tightness in his back as the reason for his early exit. The delay in his return raises questions about the true severity of the injury and what impact it might have on the Yankees’ lineup moving forward. With the season opener approaching, any uncertainty about his availability is a concern for the team.
While the back issue may seem relatively minor for now, any lingering injury in an older player is worth careful consideration. Back problems, in particular, can be tricky to manage and are often prone to recurring issues. The Yankees had acquired the veteran first baseman in the offseason to provide stability both offensively and defensively. If the injury persists, it could leave a noticeable gap in the lineup just as the season gets underway.
In addition to this new injury concern, the Yankees have already been hit with a number of setbacks during spring training. Gerrit Cole is out for the season following Tommy John surgery, while Luis Gil is sidelined for several months with a lat strain. Clarke Schmidt is dealing with shoulder discomfort, and Carlos Rodón remains uncertain due to an unspecified injury. With so many key players already struggling, the team cannot afford another long-term injury to a vital member of the roster.
Offensively, the first baseman was expected to be a key contributor to the Yankees’ lineup, offering a reliable bat and solid defense at first base. The team has already been missing Giancarlo Stanton, who is dealing with tendinitis in both elbows. If the first baseman’s back issue lingers or worsens, it could severely impact the Yankees’ offensive production, which is already under pressure heading into the 2025 season.
Although Boone and the Yankees are downplaying the concern for now, the situation will need to be closely monitored. If the player is able to return on Friday and is cleared for Opening Day, the team can breathe a sigh of relief. However, if the issue persists beyond this week, the Yankees may be forced to make difficult decisions ahead of their season opener against the Milwaukee Brewers, with the potential for another major injury setback weighing on the team’s preparation.
