Aaron Judge Returns to Yankees from Injured List

Aaron Judge is returning to the New York Yankees lineup following a long absence due to a stress fracture in his right first rib. The Yankees announced his return just in time for their series against the Colorado Rockies at Yankee Stadium.

Injury and Recovery

Judge, who has been recovering since late May, spent the past three months on the 60-day injured list. Recently, he resumed baseball activities, gradually working his way back to facing live pitching. His preparations included working out at Yankee Stadium and hitting during workouts before games on the West Coast road trip.

Skipping Rehab Assignment

The Yankees decided against sending Judge on a minor-league rehab assignment. Manager Aaron Boone suggested alternative methods to build Judge’s stamina and prepare him for crucial September games. Possible strategies include gradually increasing his game time to build endurance.

Immediate Impact Expected

Judge’s return is timely for the Yankees, who are four games behind the AL East-leading Tampa Bay Rays. They currently hold the top American League Wild Card position. His presence is expected to bolster the lineup, improving the team’s offensive performance as they aim for a deep postseason run.

Yankees’ Season Performance

Despite missing Judge’s contributions, the Yankees maintained a 45-38 record in the games he missed. Prior to his injury, Judge was hitting .248 with 17 home runs and 38 RBIs. The robust performance of the Yankees’ pitching staff has been crucial during his absence.

Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.