Aaron Judge’s Injury Status as Yankees Hope for Second Half Comeback

While many of his teammates took a breather to prepare for the second half of the season, Aaron Judge was focused on figuring out how much he could participate when play resumes.

This past week, the Yankees had a lot going on, but the spotlight wasn’t solely on Cody Bellinger’s All-Star Game MVP award or Ben Rice’s Home Run Derby efforts. No, what truly mattered was the upcoming rematch with the Dodgers, set to start on Friday in the Bronx.

After doctors found a stress fracture in his right rib about six weeks ago, Judge underwent further imaging tests to assess his recovery and potential return. While it was unlikely they’d find a completely healed rib, the team was optimistic he could at least begin upper-body exercises, which he had been unable to do while on injured reserve.

“Hopefully, we can get some positive news and start making progress,” manager Aaron Boone shared on the last day before the break. “But, honestly, I try not to dwell on it too much until I have more information. I guess it will happen when it’s meant to.”

The ramifications of Judge’s recovery could be significant for the Yankees’ season. If he heals sufficiently, there’s a chance he could be back as early as late August. However, even if he doesn’t, time is ticking for the Yankees, who are holding out hope to see him back on the field this year.

That being said, the Yankees have made it clear they’re not planning to rush Judge back anytime soon.

General Manager Brian Cashman remarked last week, “Given the current schedule, we really don’t want to risk putting him in harm’s way. That’s just going to complicate things further.” He added that the risks involved are quite serious.

Even in an optimistic scenario, the organization anticipates Judge’s return could still be a month away. Meanwhile, they’ll need to improve upon their 18-19 record since he last played. After starting off 12-8 without him, they tragically slumped to 2-11 before finally winning four consecutive games heading into the break, showing some signs of life.

As for the pitching rotation, hopes are high with Max Fried potentially starting a rehab assignment soon and Carlos Rodon possibly throwing a bullpen session in the coming days. Adding depth to their lineup, particularly at catcher, is also in the plans before the trade deadline on August 3. Giancarlo Stanton’s return later in this second half is also on the horizon, though he hasn’t specified when he will be ready after dealing with a second calf strain.

If someone had told the Yankees at the season’s outset they would be missing Judge for 37 games, Stanton for 70, Fried and Rodon for 52 each, and Gerrit Cole for 51 in the first half, yet still stand at 54-42—three games behind the Rays—they likely would’ve been content with that outcome.

However, merely surviving without their star players isn’t the primary aim. The Yankees seek success come October, and securing favorable news regarding Judge’s condition is a crucial step in that direction.

“I believe we’ve positioned ourselves to see our aspirations realized,” Boone expressed. “We’re ready to contend. Yes, there’s a long way ahead. Regardless of how many games we’ve played, we still have a shot. Our goal remains winning the championship; it’s a tough journey, but I hope we can rise to the challenge.”