Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees’ slugger, has begun outdoor training as he recovers from a rib injury.
ESPN reported on Thursday that Judge received clearance for light activity following a recent re-examination of his fractured rib. The star outfielder remains confident about his return this season.
Prior to the Yankees’ home game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Yankee Stadium, Judge was seen stretching and jogging while donning his baseball gear.
Judge has been sidelined since May 31 due to a stress fracture in his right rib. After an extended rehabilitation period, his transition to outdoor training signals a positive step towards his comeback.
Judge asserted that he will return this season, and that coming back has always been the plan. Not once has he considered sitting out the year.
The All-Star outfielder indicated that he’ll likely need additional medical evaluations before resuming hitting and throwing drills.
Everything feels good right now, but he needs another check-up to confirm his condition, Judge explained. Judge is hoping to gradually incorporate all aspects of training, including hitting and throwing.
Judge’s absence has taken a toll on the Yankees. The team’s offense has plummeted to the bottom of the Major League Baseball (MLB) rankings. Compounding the issue, injuries to Giancarlo Stanton and Cody Bellinger forced the Yankees to make trades, acquiring first baseman Luis Garcia from the Washington Nationals and outfielder Heliot Ramos from the San Francisco Giants.
While Judge’s progress is encouraging, his extended absence suggests a gradual return to game action. The Yankees currently hold second place in the AL East, making Judge’s swift return crucial for their division title hopes and postseason aspirations.
Judge concluded that he’s relieved the injury is healing. With the season winding down, he needs to get back on the field as soon as possible.