Yankees Announce Status Update After Player's Removal From Lineup

Rosario returned on a $2.5 million deal in December, and the fit is clear. With shortstop Anthony Volpe set to begin the year on the injured list, Rosario has a real chance to log early‑season starts up the middle alongside utility man Jose Caballero, who frequently started over Volpe in 2025. 

Rosario has dealt with injuries throughout his career, so when he was scratched from New York’s lineup on Saturday before its spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays, concern surfaced immediately.  

Fortunately, moments later, the Yankees announced that his removal was due to World Baseball Classic travel. “Yankees announce Amed Rosario was removed from the lineup due to WBC travel,” reported Bryan Hoch of MLB.com. 

Rosario will suit up for the loaded Team Dominican Republic in the WBC and is expected to return to camp before Opening Day. He logged 16 games for the Yankees last season after being traded from the Washington Nationals at the deadline.  

The 30‑year‑old veteran impressed in a small sample, posting a .303 batting average, .788 OPS, one home run and five RBIs across those 16 games. 

The Yankees believe Rosario can play a meaningful role early in the season, especially while Volpe recovers. His versatility, contact skills and experience give New York a reliable option in the middle infield, and a strong spring could help him carve out a larger role.  

With expectations high and roster spots competitive, Rosario’s performance in March will be closely watched as the Yankees look to stabilize their infield picture heading into 2026.