Aaron Judge has resumed throwing for the first time since being placed on the injured list due to a right elbow flexor strain. The Yankees captain was seen tossing the ball roughly 60 feet with teammate Giancarlo Stanton in a low-intensity session, marking a cautious first step toward recovery.

Initial Throwing Session Reveals Expected Discomfort

Judge informed Erik Boland of Newsday that his arm felt sore after the throw, acknowledging this was anticipated, and importantly, the discomfort was less severe than when the injury first occurred. The team shared a video of the session, captured by New York Post writer Greg Joyce, which showed Judge throwing without the usual full effort.

Injury Details and Treatment Raise Concerns

The star outfielder received a platelet-rich plasma injection in his elbow, a treatment aimed at healing but often viewed with caution as it can indicate more serious issues. The Yankees stressed there was no acute damage to Judge’s ulnar collateral ligament, suggesting he would probably avoid Tommy John surgery. This phrasing echoes comments made about pitcher Gerrit Cole earlier this year, who initially avoided surgery but eventually required it.

Progression Toward Full Recovery Remains Unclear

While Judge’s light throwing symbolizes progress, it falls far short of a return to full-speed throwing or game readiness. Expanding the range and intensity of his throws will be critical next steps. How his arm responds in the near future will dictate when he can resume outfield duties, which are essential given his strong throwing requirement in that position.

Impact of Judge’s Absence on the Yankees

The Yankees have felt Judge’s absence keenly both on the field and in the clubhouse, clinging to a tenuous playoff spot. The team also awaits the return of Giancarlo Stanton, their hottest hitter, who remained out as Judge took the designated hitter role during the latest game. Judge’s eventual return to the outfield could provide the crucial boost the struggling team needs to reverse its current slide.

Uncertain Timeline for Full Return

The Yankees have not announced a clear timeline for Judge’s comeback. Light throwing is generally a preliminary test for players recovering from elbow injuries, and while his first effort is promising, there is no guarantee of when he might return to game action. The team‘s cautious approach underscores the necessity of ensuring Judge can throw hard again, a vital skill for his defensive responsibilities.