TAMPA — Aaron Judge’s Recovery Progress
Last season, standing in right field, Aaron Judge often felt at a loss, realizing his arm didn’t have its usual strength. After dealing with a right elbow flexor strain, he spent the first month post-injury as a designated hitter, gradually making his way back to the field in September with whatever he could manage.
“The hardest part last year was knowing my teammates were giving their all, yet when the ball came my way, I just couldn’t make a throw to get a runner out,” Judge reflected on Monday.
But as October rolled around, his arm began to feel more normal, and now, four months later, Judge believes he’s on the mend.
“I feel really good,” he mentioned after the first full team practice of spring training. “Everything’s going well at the moment. I mean, I think I’m ready to go. I’ve been throwing confidently and even made a few throws to the bases. Honestly, I’m just excited to get out there again.”
After taking a couple of weeks off in the offseason, he started his throwing regimen earlier than usual, following the guidance of the Yankees’ training team. Once he was able to really let loose on long tosses, it felt like a breakthrough.
“The training staff did an amazing job. They really encouraged me to keep pitching through the offseason,” he added. Judge is set to leave camp soon to represent Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.
Oswaldo Cabrera’s Progress
Meanwhile, nearly nine months after suffering a broken ankle and torn ligaments from a fall in Seattle, Oswaldo Cabrera is feeling better and participated in live batting practice on Monday. However, he still faces several challenges ahead of the season, as manager Aaron Boone noted it all hinges on his upcoming performance.
“It will take some time for him to really get back into the groove,” Boone said regarding Cabrera’s recovery. “Despite not playing a game yet, it’s positive to see him doing everything right now. Hopefully, he’ll improve his mobility soon.”
Anthony Volpe’s Rehabilitation
Anthony Volpe, on the other hand, was scheduled to begin batting practice on Monday, marking a step in his recovery from shoulder surgery last October. Boone indicated that the shortstop is doing well, although he needs to get more comfortable with his movements.
Other Notes
In terms of the team’s health, Ryan McMahon was absent from the full team practice due to flu-like symptoms. Additionally, after drafting Yankee Fernandez last week, the Yankees moved him to Triple-A while also inviting the outfielder to Major League camp.
