Why is Cody Bellinger not playing for Yankees vs Royals in Game 1 of the series?

Cody Bellinger once again absent from the New York Yankees lineup, this time missing the series opener at home against the Kansas City Royals—a matchup the team hope would offer some momentum after recently dropping a series to the Giants.

There’s a valid reason behind Bellinger’s absence. Unfortunately, Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed it’s related to the outfielder’s back. Bellinger is still dealing with a sore back and continues to receive treatment and therapy to manage the issue.

So far this MLB season, Bellinger has contributed 53 plate appearances with 9 runs, 9 hits, 1 home run, 8 RBIs, and 4 walks, posting a .196 batting average. Despite the slow start, there’s optimism he can exceed his projections as the season progresses.

When Will Cody Bellinger Return?

The good news is Bellinger may not be out for much longer. Boone provided a positive update, saying, “He’s doing well. I just want to pick some spots here, especially getting through 13 (games) in a row here.” It seems the early stretch of the season has been physically taxing for Bellinger.

In his most recent outing—the final game of the Giants series, which the Yankees lost 2-1—Bellinger went hitless in four at-bats and struck out once. His best showing in that series came in Game 2, where he notched two runs and two hits.

Who’s Covering for Bellinger?

While Bellinger recovers, Trent Grisham has stepped into the center field role and is holding his own. Grisham has been a bright spot so far in the 2025 season, with 3 home runs, 9 RBIs, and a .344 batting average.