Yelich was able to take swings before the game though, which is an encouraging sign. It’s possible that he could return to action on Sunday, but it’s going to depend on how he feels in the morning. Fantasy managers should be sure to check his status prior to Sunday’s series finale.

The Brewers hold a comfortable lead on the top spot in the National League, so there’s no reason to rush Yelich back into action here. They’re going to take it day-to-day and make sure that he’s feeling well enough to go as opposed to rushing him back and risking further aggravation. Jake Bauers will function in his place as the team’s designated hitter on Friday evening and will bat seventh against Johan Oviedo and the Pirates.

Yelich is out of the lineup for a second straight game Thursday due to back soreness.

Yelich has dealt with persistent back issues throughout his career, and underwent back surgery last summer, so there’s some legitimate cause for concern here. It sounds like a precautionary measure, but he’ll presumably undergo further evaluation to determine the severity of the issue. Fantasy managers should consider him day-to-day heading into Thursday’s series finale.