New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger is nearing a return from a Grade 2 hamstring strain, with manager Aaron Boone indicating he could begin a rehab assignment as early as next week. The news comes nearly three weeks after Bellinger sustained the injury.
Bellinger participated in a full pregame workout Friday at Rogers Centre, which included defensive work in left field, running the bases at close to full speed, and batting practice. He reported feeling “really good” and described Friday’s workout as his “best day effort-wise” defensively. While acknowledging some residual tightness in his left hamstring, Bellinger stated he is progressing well and advancing daily.
"If he continues to respond well to the increased workload, Bellinger could be in line for a rehab assignment sometime next week," Boone said. Given the relatively short duration of his absence, Bellinger might only require a few games on his rehab assignment before rejoining the Yankees' lineup.
In other team news, manager Aaron Boone was ejected for the 50th time in his career during Friday's game. Boone stated the ejection occurred after he made a quiet remark about a pitch being low to home plate umpire Vic Carapazza. Boone leads the American League with four ejections this season.
Additionally, reliever Angel Chivilli has been placed on the injured list with "posterior elbow stuff," according to Boone. Chivilli will see a doctor in the coming days. Carlos Rodón, dealing with left elbow inflammation, made his second rehab start Thursday night, pitching 4 1/3 scoreless innings. Boone described Rodón as being in the best physical condition he has been in all year but indicated that further discussion is needed regarding his return due to pitch count and scheduling factors. Luis Gil, recovering from right shoulder inflammation, threw two scoreless innings in his second rehab start Friday, and is likely to be used in a bullpen role upon his return.