New York Yankees left-hander Nestor Cortes tweaked a hamstring and will miss the World Baseball Classic.
Cortes told SNY that he sustained a Grade 2 hamstring strain and will not throw off the mound for a few weeks. He will continue throwing. Cortes would not rule out being ready for Opening Day.
Cortes was set to pitch for Team USA in the WBC. Colorado Rockies right-hander Kyle Freeland will take his place, per MLB Network.
The 28-year-old Cortes is coming off an All-Star campaign. He finished 12-4 with a 2.44 ERA in 28 starts in 2022, pitching a career-high — by far — 158 1/3 innings.
Cortes exited Game 4 of the American League Championship Series in October with a left groin injury.
Pitcher and catchers playing in the WBC have to report Monday.
As it stands, Cortes will report to training camp with the Yankees on Thursday.
–Field Level Media
