Aaron Judge has not appeared in a game since May 31, when a fractured right rib forced him onto the injured list. The injury halted a season in which the Yankees held a strong 36‑23 record, but the team has managed to stay afloat, improving to 32‑31 despite the loss of All‑Star Game MVP Cody Bellinger.
Clearing the Hurdle
A week after being cleared for baseball activities on August 5, Judge took the field at Toronto’s Rogers Centre on August 15, throwing a ball and logging a light run. The session, overseen by trainers, marked the first tangible sign of progress in his recovery and was closely monitored by the club’s medical staff.
Manager Aaron Boone, while cautious, expressed optimism that the slugger’s return could be imminent. “He’s still in the early stages of baseball activity,” Boone said, emphasizing that the team will not rush him back until he is fully ready.
The Yankees’ fortunes have been intertwined with Judge’s health. Entering Saturday’s play, New York trails Tampa Bay by 6½ games in the American League East but maintains a three‑game lead over Boston for the top wild‑card spot, underscoring the importance of a timely return.
If Judge can resume full‑time play before the season’s final stretch, the Yankees stand to gain a significant boost in both offense and clubhouse morale. His presence alone can shift the dynamics of a race that remains finely balanced.