New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge has taken a significant step toward returning to the team's lineup, engaging in throwing activities for the first time since sustaining a stress fracture in his first right rib in early June. Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed the progress on Saturday.
While this does not signal an immediate return to full baseball activities, it marks another positive development for Judge, who last played in a game on May 31. The three-time American League MVP has consistently expressed his intention to play again this season, even with just six weeks remaining in the regular season. Judge has previously been cleared for lighter activities, including outdoor running and weight room exercises for his upper body.
The Yankees lineup has struggled considerably without their key player, and Judge's eventual return could provide a substantial boost. The team has also been hampered by injuries to other players, including outfielder Cody Bellinger and designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton, further impacting the offensive unit they ideally wish to field.
Earlier this month, Judge voiced his confidence about a return, stating, "Oh, I’ll be back this season. I don’t know why I wouldn’t be. That was always the plan to come back — sooner than later, definitely — but I never had a thought of not playing this year."