Yankees' Cortes out of WBC with hamstring strain, won't throw for 2 weeks

New York Yankees left-hander Nestor Cortes withdrew from the World Baseball Classic due to a right hamstring strain, he revealed Monday.

Cortes, named to Team USA's roster last week, said the injury is a low Grade 2 strain, according to Newsday's Erik Boland. He added that he'll stay off the mound for at least two weeks while remaining in camp with the Yankees.

The 28-year-old told reporters he initially felt the injury last week at home when running sprints and then later while putting on a shoe.

Despite the disappointment of missing the WBC, Cortes said he's now focused on not losing any regular-season time. Although there's no firm timeline for a return, he seemed optimistic about being ready for Opening Day.

"I think the ultimate goal here is to get ready for No. 28," he said, per Bryan Hoch of MLB.com. "I think it's kind of a letdown for the country, but I think the biggest goal right here is to get healthy and be ready for the start of the season."

Following last summer's breakout campaign, Cortes is again expected to be an important piece of the Yankees' rotation. He earned his first All-Star berth and down-ballot Cy Young votes in 2022 after posting a 2.44 ERA and 0.92 WHIP with 163 strikeouts across 28 starts for the AL East champions. Cortes also missed time last summer due to a left groin strain.

Colorado Rockies right-hander Kyle Freeland announced that he'll replace Cortes on Team USA.