The New York Yankees face a critical juncture in September as they aim to close the gap with the Tampa Bay Rays in the American League East. While securing a favorable playoff bye is a significant goal, the potential return of star outfielder Aaron Judge from a fractured rib is paramount to the team's postseason aspirations. Judge has been sidelined since May 31.
Judge made the trip to the West Coast, where the Yankees began the final stretch of their season Monday night with a 10-1 loss to the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim. The team's performance in that game was described as lackluster, with Elmer Rodríguez on the mound.
Judge's anticipated return, possibly as soon as next week against the Colorado Rockies, could provide the Yankees with up to 19 games to prepare for the playoffs. However, the focus is not solely on his presence but on his ability to perform at a high level offensively. The team needs Judge to be hitting effectively to complement his return to the lineup as they contend for their first World Series title since 2009 and second in three years.