Aaron Judge Advances Recovery, Return to Outfield Uncertain

Aaron Judge took a significant step in his recovery from a flexor strain in his right arm, throwing to bases at Yankee Stadium for the first time since his injury one month ago. While this marks progress, the timeline for Judge’s return to the outfield remains unclear. The reigning American League MVP redirected inquiries about his recovery timeline to the team’s trainers, who are not available for media questions. Manager Aaron Boone admitted he does not know when Judge will return to his defensive position.

Balancing Act for the Yankees

“The bottom line is we want to do this the right way,” Boone stated before the Yankees faced the Boston Red Sox in their series finale on August 6, 2023. “As much as he wants to be out there and we want him out there, we need to ensure we do everything possible to put ourselves in the best position to avoid reinjury.” Since coming off the injured list on August 5, Judge has served as the Yankees’ everyday designated hitter, forcing the team to adapt by utilizing Giancarlo Stanton in right field for the first time in nearly two years.

Stanton, who is 35 years old, started in right field on August 9, marking his first appearance in the position since September 2023. His history of leg injuries has limited his mobility in the field, making it challenging for him to perform at the same level as he did during his MVP season. Earlier this month, Stanton missed three consecutive games after starting three in a row, highlighting concerns about his capacity to handle the demands of playing in the field.

Judge’s Determination

Despite the challenges, Stanton has excelled as a hitter since July, boasting a batting average of .317 with 16 home runs and a 1.134 OPS over his last 38 games as of August 6. Boone emphasized the need for caution, stating, “He’s too important to us moving forward.” As the playoffs approach, the Yankees find themselves in a delicate situation, wanting both Judge and Stanton in the lineup without risking further injury to Judge.

If and when Judge returns to the outfield, Boone remains unsure whether he will play every game or share time with Stanton and other players. Judge expressed his eagerness to return, stating, “I think that’s the name of the game right now, is just making sure I can, we can kind of push the volume, push the level of it and also make sure that I’m recovered enough.” He acknowledged the support of the training staff in facilitating his recovery.

Judge compared the soreness he experiences after throwing to the feeling of returning to play after a hamstring injury. He revealed that he is undergoing “quite a bit” of treatment but declined to provide specifics, deferring to the training staff. He also expressed his frustration with not being able to play defense, describing it as “brutal.” “I’m a ballplayer,” Judge said. “I want to play both sides of the ball and go out there, making plays on defense, helping my team out.”

While Judge has struggled at the plate with a .218 batting average, three home runs, and an .804 OPS in 16 games since his activation, he maintains that his elbow has not hindered his hitting. Nevertheless, his progress in throwing is promising. Judge recently threw baseballs from a distance of approximately 150 feet, a milestone in his rehabilitation.

Boone reiterated the importance of ensuring Judge is fully healed before returning to the game. “Throwing isn’t the only part of his game that makes him really good out there,” he stated. “We want to make sure he’s in a good position to continue to heal and protect him from injury.” As the Yankees navigate this complex situation, the health of their star player remains a top priority.