benching

Someone who is kept on the sides just in case it doesn't work out with the person you're already dating. For example, "I'm benching Matt until I figure out where things are going with this new guy."

It's the act of putting someone on the bench because they may have done something you don’t like or upset you, it implies you're keeping them on time out until further notice. If you’ve "been benched" you probably have seen a drop in activity, calls, texts, and overall interaction with no real explanation. It’s not quite ghosting, but close. In this case, you’re the one making the decision.