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.