New York Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius is expected to miss the first month of the regular season after straining his right shoulder while away at the World Baseball Classic.
Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said Tuesday that Gregorius is likely to be sidelined six weeks. Opening day for the Yankees is April 2 at Tampa Bay.
Gregorius was hurt when he turned a double play for the Netherlands on Saturday in an exhibition game against Arizona in preparation for the WBC semifinals.
“It’s someone we’re going to miss,” manager Joe Girardi said before Tuesday night’s game against Boston in Tampa, Florida. “Guys are going to have to step up.”
The 27-year-old Gregorius hit .276 with 20 home runs and 70 RBIs last season.