The New York Yankees have activated captain Aaron Judge from the 60-day injured list, reinstating the outfielder ahead of their series against the Colorado Rockies. Judge has been sidelined for the past three months with a stress fracture in his right first rib, an injury he sustained in late May.
Judge's return comes without a minor-league rehab assignment. Yankees manager Aaron Boone indicated that the team will use alternative methods to build Judge's stamina for a potential postseason run, which could include playing in games and being removed before completion. Judge has been progressing since receiving clearance for baseball activities in August, starting with tee work and soft toss before advancing to live batting practice.
He has also been facing a high-velocity pitching machine and participating in outfield and baserunning drills. These activities are intended to increase his stamina and prepare him for his role in right field.
Prior to his injury, Judge was hitting .248 with a .711 slugging percentage, recording 17 home runs and 38 RBIs in 53 games. The Yankees compiled a 45-38 record during the 83 games he missed. While the offense experienced difficulties during his absence, the team's pitching staff remained strong. Judge's return is anticipated to bolster the offense as the Yankees aim to improve their standing in the AL East, where they trail the leading Tampa Bay Rays by four games. New York currently holds the top American League Wild Card spot with a nine-game lead over the third-place Boston Red Sox.