The New York Yankees are anticipating a significant boost as Aaron Judge is set to rejoin the team’s lineup on Tuesday in their road game against the Texas Rangers. Judge, the team’s star right fielder, took batting practice on Sunday at the Yankees’ minor league complex in Tampa Bay, signaling progress after being sidelined with an injury.
The 33-year-old slugger has been recovering from a flexor strain in his right elbow, an injury sustained while throwing from the outfield during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays on July 22. The Yankees placed Judge on the 10-day injured list on July 27 as a precautionary measure while allowing him time to heal.
Progress Report from Tampa Bay Complex
Judge’s recent batting session was promising. He completed live batting practice about 45 minutes before reports emerged, during which he hit a home run and a ground-rule double. He is expected to continue taking at-bats on Monday at the Tampa facility before returning fully to the Yankees’ active roster.
“Aaron Judge finished up live BP at the club’s minor league complex in Tampa about 45 minutes ago. According to one observer, included in Judge’s at-bats was a HR & a ground rule 2B. He’s scheduled to take more ABs at the complex on Monday & is expected back in the lineup Tuesday” —Erik Boland, Sports Reporter
Yankees’ Cautious Approach to Judge’s Comeback
Yankees manager Aaron Boone has made it clear that while Judge’s injury is not severe, the team is taking careful steps to ensure a full recovery. To reduce stress on the elbow, Judge is expected to initially return as a designated hitter rather than in the outfield. Boone emphasized that this strategy aims to ease Judge into game action before resuming defensive responsibilities.
“No acute injury to the UCL. Overall, that’s the good news,” Boone said. “With those first few days coming off the IL, it’s probably DH mode. Then he’ll start throwing … and hopefully, get back to the outfield shortly thereafter.” —Aaron Boone, Yankees Manager
Impact of Judge’s Return on Yankees’ Season
Judge’s return could not come soon enough, as the Yankees have been struggling in the highly competitive American League East. As of Sunday, New York held a 60-51 record, trailing the division-leading Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays. The team has lost six of its last ten games, including a surprising 13-12 home defeat to the Miami Marlins.
Before his injury, Judge was delivering an outstanding performance, batting .342 with a .449 on-base percentage and slugging .711 over 103 games. He had launched 37 home runs and earned two AL MVP honors, proving to be a central figure in the Yankees’ offensive strategy. His full-power return promises to rejuvenate a team currently striving to regain momentum in the second half of the season.
Looking Ahead: Rebuilding Momentum with Judge Back
With Judge poised to return in Tuesday’s game, the Yankees are hopeful this addition will steady their offense and improve their division standing. His presence in the lineup has been missed during the recent slump, and a healthy Judge is expected to provide leadership as well as power at the plate. The team’s cautious approach to his return aims to ensure that he remains available for the crucial stretch of games ahead.