Aaron Hicks sidelined from Yankees’ lineup with stiff back

When the Yankees take on the Braves later today, they will have to do so without Aaron Hicks. The Yankees center fielder continues to deal with back stiffness, according to George King. Hicks did not play in either of Sunday’s split-squad outings.

The 29-year-old last appeared in action on Friday against the Orioles. He went 0-for-2 with a walk, playing in five innings. At some point during the game his back stiffened up. The Yankees at first appeared to be taking an abundance of caution with him.

“On my ride home (from Bradenton), I knew [Hicks] came in for treatment was a little stiff,” Yankees manager Aaron Boone told Randy Miller over the weekend. “I just called him and said, ‘With the off day (coming up Monday), let’s just (rest Sunday). He felt good (Sunday). I am not anticipating any problem. He should be in there Tuesday.

It’s Tuesday, however, and the team does not have him in the lineup. Hopefully this is just a case of the Yankees giving him an extra day. Hicks recently signed a seven-year extension and expects to play a key role for the team. At this point in the spring there’s no need to rush him back when he’s not at 100 percent.

The club should reveal more information when Boone addresses the media. We’ll keep this post updated as the story develops.

In the meantime, here’s a first-look at today’s lineup:

As usual, a game thread and recap will follow shortly.