Aaron Judge Advances Batting Practice as Yankees Await Return

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge took another step toward returning to the field Tuesday, participating in indoor batting practice as he continues his recovery from a right rib stress fracture. This session follows a progression that began with hitting off a tee last Thursday, moving to underhand tosses, and culminating in batting practice against coach overhand throws.

Manager Aaron Boone stated that Judge is "doing well" and that the initial days of his hitting program have been successful. In addition to batting practice, Judge also ran in right field on Tuesday and threw from over 100 feet on Monday, activities Boone described as "looks really good throwing."

The Yankees plan for Judge to play right field upon his return, rather than exclusively serving as the designated hitter. While he may have occasional DH days to ease back into playing every day, the team anticipates him being in the field. Boone acknowledged that playing the field carries more inherent risk than DHing, recalling that Judge is believed to have sustained the rib injury in April while diving in right field. However, he emphasized that the team will not put Judge on the field if he is not ready.

A primary unknown is how Judge's rib will respond to hitting against faster pitching and generating his usual powerful swings, which are described as a violent action that would test the injured area. Boone has not asked doctors for assurances regarding Judge regaining his full bat speed and power, stating his expectation that "he’s going to be Aaron Judge."

Even a slightly diminished version of Judge would be a significant boost for the Yankees' offense, which has struggled during his absence. The team hopes Judge can avoid any setbacks as he completes his rehabilitation, as his ability to impact the game with one swing and elevate his teammates is seen as crucial for the team's postseason aspirations. Boone indicated that while Judge has a calendar for his recovery, adjustments can be made, and progress can sometimes accelerate or require a step back.