What's Happening?
Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees captain, has made progress in his recovery from a flexor strain in his right elbow by throwing to bases from right field. This marks a significant step in his throwing progression, although there is no set timeline for his return to playing the outfield in games. Judge has been serving as the designated hitter since his return on August 5, following a stint on the injured list. Despite his absence from the outfield, Judge continues to lead the major leagues with a .326 batting average and 1.114 OPS, contributing 40 home runs and 92 RBIs. The Yankees are cautious about his return to ensure he does not reinjure himself.
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Why It's Important?
Judge's recovery is crucial for the Yankees as they aim to strengthen their lineup and improve their chances in the American League East. His ability to play both offensively and defensively is vital for the team's success, especially as they trail behind Toronto and Boston in the standings. The Yankees' management is focused on ensuring Judge's full recovery to avoid further setbacks, which could impact their playoff aspirations. His return to the outfield would bolster the team's defense and overall performance.
What's Next?
The Yankees will continue to monitor Judge's progress and adjust his playing schedule accordingly. Manager Aaron Boone has emphasized the importance of a careful approach to Judge's recovery, indicating that his body will dictate the pace of his return. The team may consider sharing outfield duties between Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, depending on Judge's readiness and Stanton's ability to play defense. The Yankees are focused on maintaining their competitive edge as they approach the final stretch of the season.
