August 23, 2026 • 9:04 AM EDT
Updated 12 days ago
If you’re a Yankees fan waiting for that offense to wake up, here’s a big boost: Cody Bellinger just finished a solid rehab assignment at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and is expected to be back on the roster soon. While the Yankees hosted a Bellinger Bobblehead Night in the Bronx, the real-life version was putting his hamstring to the test down in Pennsylvania. Since his IL stint started back on July 26 with a left hamstring strain, Bellinger’s return couldn’t be timed better as the lineup’s power numbers have slumped.
Bellinger played left field and hit second in the order against the Charlotte Knights Friday night, going 0-for-3 but more importantly flashing healthy movement in the outfield. You’d rather see a few line drives fall for hits, sure, but the bigger box to check for Bellinger and New York was the running, fielding, and ability to bounce up and down off the bench—exactly what can aggravate a hamstring. He showed no signs of trouble. According to Yahoo Sports, the expectation is for Bellinger to come off the injured list as early as Sunday.
Let’s break down what actually happened. His Friday night in left field saw him handle fly balls routinely. He chased a liner from Junior Perez, nearly grabbing it at full extension—so there’s no evidence he’s favoring the leg. Even mishaps, like a throwing error that let a runner take the extra base, were arm-related, not leg. On Thursday’s rain-delayed opener, Bellinger played it safe at DH but managed a single and ran the bases without discomfort. The RailRiders’ manager Shelley Duncan wasn’t about to risk Bellinger in wet outfield conditions. Duncan said, “Don’t want him to go back on a ball and have an injury. I want him to play the game the way he plays the game. Too much of a risk there.”
Bellinger himself echoed that comfort, telling reporters it’s the up-and-down movement in and out of the field that really tests a hamstring. “It’s moreso the up-and-down. Playing defense, going to sit down. Playing defense, going to sit down. Going to the bases.” He wanted to check off sliding, which he did on a double play—again, no sign of lingering pain.
- Bellinger played six innings in left field and handled several fly balls during his second rehab game.
- He reported no issues with his hamstring after fielding and base running.
- His DH outing on Thursday included a single and a successful slide.
- Manager Shelley Duncan prioritized health, switching Bellinger to DH amid rain concerns.
- Bellinger’s at-bats showed timing and comfort at the plate, facing both righties and lefties.
- The Yankees’ offense has struggled in his absence, underscoring the urgency of his return.
- Bellinger expects to return to the Yankees as early as Sunday.
Bellinger’s rehab by the numbers
It’s not about the box score with a rehab, but here’s context if you’re betting on his impact. Bellinger went 0-for-3 Friday and 1-for-3 Thursday (as DH), including a deep fly out to right-center, testing both his legs and timing. In the majors this year, he’s hitting .259 with 97 hits, 21 doubles, three triples, 11 homers, and 53 RBIs over 102 games. The Yankees need those stats back in their daily lineup—recent weeks have shown just how crucial his bat is.
What his return means for the Yankees
Bellinger’s versatility is a key asset—he can handle left field at Yankee Stadium and provide lineup protection. Even more vital is his leadership in big moments. He earned the All-Star Game MVP in July with a two-run single that set the tone for the American League’s win. And he knows the offense has sputtered while he’s been out; that frustration seems to fuel his urgency to return.
Key takeaways for bettors
- Bellinger looks healthy and is set to be activated Sunday—monitor pregame news for confirmation.
- His hamstring held up to both fielding and base running challenges; don’t expect limitations defensively.
- The Yankees offense should see a boost in both power and depth with his return.
- Bellinger’s first week back could see him slotted into left field and the middle of the lineup.
- His track record this season (.259 with 11 home runs, 53 RBIs) suggests solid value for player props after activation.
- Watch for an immediate impact in production: Bellinger was seeing the ball well even during the rehab assignment.
- The Yankees’ recent slide without him shows just how valuable he is to their postseason chase.
- If you’re betting team totals or moneylines, Bellinger’s activation should factor into your calculations.
- Keep an eye on any lingering updates from the team medical staff, just in case there’s a late change.
More coverage: latest MLB news and today’s MLB picks.
Related stories
21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. The content on this site is for entertainment purposes only. We may earn a commission from affiliate links.
Login 
