Aaron Judge was back in the New York Yankees lineup Saturday for the second straight game, playing designated hitter against the Mets. He had sat out the previous Thursday against the Rockies as the team manages his return to play following a three-plus-month absence due to a fractured right rib. Manager Aaron Boone indicated that Judge could potentially have another day off either Sunday or Monday.
"He's physically responded well," Boone said of Judge's initial games back. "That's been encouraging. He's handled the rigors of playing in these games."
Judge went hitless in four at-bats during Saturday's 12-2 loss to the Mets. In his first four games back after skipping a traditional minor league rehab assignment, Judge is 3-for-14 with one walk, six strikeouts, and no extra-base hits. "Offensively, I feel like he looks good in these handful of days," Boone said. "Hopefully, he gets more and more sharp."
Judge stated he is seeing the ball well and feels fine. Boone added that Judge has made good swing decisions, frequently reached deep counts, and gotten on base, expressing encouragement about his current performance while hoping he finds his usual timing and rhythm.
In other Yankees news, Amed Rosario started at DH against a left-handed pitcher and hit the ball hard but came away without a hit. Boone remains confident in the veteran hitter, expecting him to perform more in line with his past statistics against lefties.
Anthony Volpe started at second base and went 0-for-3. Pitcher Ryan Weathers is progressing from a left forearm flexor strain and has been throwing off flat ground. Boone did not rule out Weathers returning to the roster without minor league rehab games and suggested he could potentially be ready for a bullpen session as soon as Monday. The possibility of Weathers joining the postseason roster is uncertain, with Boone hoping for his return before then.
Clarke Schmidt is scheduled to make his fifth minor league rehab start on Saturday as he continues his comeback from Tommy John surgery. Boone noted that Schmidt has pitched well in his rehab appearances and expressed hope that he can contribute to the team.
Right-hander Chase Hampton, previously a top Yankees pitching prospect, was claimed off waivers by Washington and optioned to Double-A. Hampton was designated for assignment to make room on the 40-man roster for Judge's return from the injured list.
Spencer Jones had his third consecutive multi-hit game, earning praise from Boone for playing a mature game and making smart decisions in situations.
The Yankees have surpassed 3 million fans for the 26th consecutive season with full attendance.