"You Don't Like To See That": Another Key Yankee Injured

As if the New York Yankees didn't have enough concerns on the pitching front with a number of injuries, now they've learned that one of the key forces in their lineup, on both sides of the ball, has come up lame. Harrison Bader is suffering from an oblique injury.

Aaron Boone says Harrison Bader suffered an oblique injury yesterday and he’s getting tested today, per @MaxTGoodman pic.twitter.com/QOjsnZgrc3

— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) March 9, 2023

Manager Aaron Boone says Bader suffered the injury yesterday and is having some tests run today. He said that Bader "swung and felt something in there'' during his last exhibition at-bat Wednesday. "Anytime it's the side...you don't like to see that.''

GM Brian Cashman has also announced today that no less than three of his pitchers – big free agent signing Carlos Rodon and relievers Lou Trivino and Tommy Kahnle – will start the 2023 season on the injured list.

Bader made an immediate impact on the Yankees lineup when he came back from injury to make his debut in Pinstripes over the last two weeks of the 2022 regular season and most importantly in the playoffs. 

Acquired in a deadline deal from the St. Louis Cardinals for pitcher Jordan Montgomery, Bader solidified center field on defense, while at the plate, all he did was mash five home runs in nine postseason games, posting a 1.260 OPS with an on-base of well over .400. 

The hometown kid is a critical piece to the Yankees' hopes this season, and they're holding their breath that this oblique issue won't keep him out to start the season.

Photo: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports