Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees’ power‑hitting outfielder, has been out of the lineup since early June after a stress fracture was diagnosed in his rib. He had played through the injury for more than a month before landing on the injured list on June 2.
Recent scans reveal that the bone is mending, but the healing is not yet advanced enough for the team’s medical staff to clear him for batting practice or field work. There is no firm timetable for when Judge might resume baseball activities.
Both Judge and the organization remain optimistic that he could return before the season concludes, though a concrete date has not been set. The Yankees have struggled in his absence, slipping to an 18‑19 record since his final game on May 31, a stretch that has dropped them 2.5 games behind Tampa Bay in the AL East.
All‑Star Recognition
Even while sidelined, Judge earned a spot in the American League’s starting outfield for the All‑Star Game, a nod to a .248 average, .375 on‑base rate and .533 slugging percentage that included 17 home runs and 38 RBIs in the first two months of the season. He was later replaced in the lineup by teammate Cody Bellinger.
What Lies Ahead
Manager Aaron Boone has said the club will monitor Judge’s progress daily, hoping to have him back when the roster needs a spark as the pennant race tightens. The team’s recent slump has put additional pressure on the front office to secure a timely return from its star player.