Aaron Judge Racing Clock for Yankees ALDS Return

Yankees star Aaron Judge is actively increasing his baseball activity as he works toward a potential return for the American League Division Series (ALDS) against the Tampa Bay Rays, provided the team advances. Judge has begun light running and is participating in daily hitting drills, signaling progress in his recovery from a moderate-grade calf strain.

However, the timeline for Judge's return is tight. A moderate strain, particularly affecting the soleus muscle near the Achilles tendon, typically requires four to six weeks for healing. Judge is currently just past the two-week mark in his recovery.

The Yankees are operating under the assumption that Judge could be available for the ALDS, a scenario that would require a near-miraculous recovery given the typical duration for such an injury. The team has not yet officially confirmed his status for the upcoming playoff series.