Before the New York Yankees faced the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday, a group of observers gathered as Aaron Judge prepared to attempt long toss. The focus remained on Judge’s arm strength recovery after the right elbow issues that sidelined him earlier this season.
Manager Aaron Boone explained that this outing served as a key evaluation by the team’s medical staff to understand how much throwing power Judge has regained, though he tempered expectations about a full return of strength in the near term.
Uncertainty Surrounds Judge’s Defensive Return
Although Giancarlo Stanton rejoined the Yankees’ lineup after missing three games due to elbow soreness, the timeline for Judge returning to the outfield remains unclear. Since rejoining the team from the injured list on August 5, Judge has only been used as a designated hitter.
Boone shared in a WFAN interview,
“What I’ve said is I’m waiting on the trainers to say, ‘Thumbs up.’ He’s expected to long-toss again today, so I don’t expect it here in Tampa. Could it be Boston? Maybe. I just don’t know yet.”
Confidence in Judge’s Ability to Manage Limited Throws
Judge, 33, has been productive at the plate with a .333 batting average, 39 home runs, and 91 RBIs. However, his power on throws from the field has yet to fully return, and his defensive play remains on hold while he recovers.
Boone emphasized the team’s belief in Judge’s capacity to protect himself on the field even if his throwing strength does not immediately rebound to full force before season’s end.
Stanton, meanwhile, who started the year sidelined with elbow soreness, made his season debut in June and continues to work back to full health.
Implications for Yankees’ Lineup and Defensive Strategy
Judge’s ongoing rehabilitation of arm strength is a critical factor in how the Yankees manage their defensive alignment in the coming weeks. While his offensive contributions remain strong, the decision of when he returns to right field will depend on medical clearance and his ability to throw without risking further injury.