Atlanta Braves Get Mike Yastrzemski Status Update Ahead of Opening Day
Mike Yastrzemski has not played for the Atlanta Braves since Monday.
The Atlanta Braves are sorting through a minor health situation as Opening Day approaches, and one of their key offseason additions has recently been sidelined. While the issue does not appear serious, Mike Yastrzemski has been out of action this week at spring training. Atlanta added the 35-year-old veteran outfielder in December on a two‑year, $23 million deal that runs through the 2027 season and includes a club option.
Initially expected to play a complementary role, his importance has grown significantly in March. That is largely due to the absence of Jurickson Profar, who will miss the entire 2026 season due to suspension. With a spot now open in the outfield mix, Yastrzemski is in line to take on a much larger role than originally anticipated, making his status especially relevant and raising concern levels when he missed five straight games.
Gabe Burns of the Atlanta Journal‑Constitution reported on Saturday, “Mike Yastrzemski has been dealing with pink eye, which is why he’s been out recently. He’ll return in next few days. ” Mike Yastrzemski has been dealing with pink eye, which is why he's been out recently.
He'll return in next few days. — Gabe Burns (@GabeBurnsAJC) March 20, 2026 Fortunately for the Braves, the issue is minor and should not impact his availability for the regular season. Still, the missed time interrupts what had been an excellent spring for the outfielder.