Stiff back keeps Bellinger on bench in Pittsburgh opener

PITTSBURGH -- Cody Bellinger is dealing with a stiff back that kept him out of Friday’s lineup against the Pirates, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said.

Bellinger experienced the issue during Thursday’s 9-7 victory over the D-backs at Yankee Stadium, according to Boone, who said he did not want to press the issue considering the club’s early-morning arrival in Pittsburgh for the Bucs’ home opener.

"It was pretty stiff on him; it was a little better after the game,” Boone said. “Once we got on the plane, we were getting off the plane at two in the morning. I just felt like, let’s give it a day and try and calm it down.”

Bellinger reported improvement Friday and could be available off the bench if needed, Boone said.

"It’s not something I want to mess with,” Boone said. “I don’t think it’s anything too big.”

The 29-year-old Bellinger went hitless in Thursday’s game and is 5-for-21 (.238) with a home run and six RBIs in his first six games with the Yankees, having been acquired from the Cubs in December.

In additional injury updates, left-hander Tyler Matzek (oblique) is nearing a Minor League rehab assignment, with his next appearance likely to come with Single-A Tampa. Matzek could be big league-ready before the end of April, Boone said.

Boone said right-hander Scott Effross (left hamstring) recently experienced a setback, which will push his timeline further back. Effross was injured after throwing one pitch in his second Spring Training appearance on Feb. 25.

The Yankees are also closely watching right-hander Luis Gil (high-grade right lat strain), who Boone said is a week to 10 days away from resuming playing catch. Gil, the reigning American League Rookie of the Year, could be a factor after the All-Star break.

In the meantime, the Bombers’ bullpen is more full on Friday, with right-hander Devin Williams returning from the paternity list. In a corresponding move, right-hander Adam Ottavino was designated for assignment.

More help is on the way; Boone said the club is planning to activate right-hander Ian Hamilton when eligible on Tuesday in Detroit.