Despite expressing frustration over being pulled from games early, New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge is being managed carefully as he returns from a three-month layoff due to a rib stress fracture. Manager Aaron Boone indicated that Judge might not play full nine-inning games and could even sit out certain contests to ensure his proper build-up and health.
"He told me that during the game [that he wasn’t happy about coming out], too, and the day before," Boone said Wednesday. "So I know that. And that’s OK. I like the fact that he wants to be in there because he’s feeling good."
Judge returned to the Yankees lineup in right field on Wednesday, but the team's plan to ease him back into play remains in effect. This approach is aimed at keeping Judge healthy for the remainder of the season as the Yankees pursue the division lead. Boone described the situation as "fluid," emphasizing the need to monitor Judge's condition, recovery, and performance.
"But that’s him, he likes to play and, obviously, he’s one of those guys that has the ability to play through a lot — not that he’s playing through anything right now," Boone added. "But obviously the biggest thing is the buildup and not having played, so just want to be mindful and smart about that."
The strategic management of Judge's return could also ensure his availability for the Subway Series opener against the Mets on September 25th, marking the 25th anniversary of September 11th.
In other team news, pitcher Clarke Schmidt made his fourth rehab appearance on Wednesday with Double-A Somerset, working with two days of rest as he aims to return as a reliever following Tommy John surgery. The Yankees also held a moment of silence before Wednesday's game for former pitcher Rollie Sheldon, who died last week after winning two World Series titles with the team in 1961 and 1962.