Introduction to Aaron Judge’s Injury
The New York Yankees have been dealing with a significant setback after their star player, Aaron Judge, suffered a flexor strain in his right elbow. This injury has raised concerns about his availability for upcoming games and the impact it could have on the team’s performance.
Current Status of Aaron Judge’s Recovery
New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge did some on-field work at Yankee Stadium prior to Thursday’s series finale against the Tampa Bay Rays as he continues his recovery from a flexor strain in his right elbow.
Judge was seen running down fly balls in right field, but did not throw the ball back into the infield, instead flipping them into a nearby bucket so as not to strain the impacted area. He even stood in the batter’s box for rehabbing reliever Mark Leiter Jr., though he did not swing the bat.
According to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch, he has been doing some “light cage work behind the scenes,” which at least confirms that he is swinging a bat.
Jul 25, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) runs in after the top of the fifth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Potential Return to the Lineup
The 33-year-old was placed on the 10-day injured list on Sunday, and the Yankees are hopeful that he will return in some capacity when those 10 days are up. However, it will likely only be as a designated hitter, which will ensure his big bat gets back into the lineup while limiting any potential stress on the elbow that would come in the field.
With Judge returning as a DH, that means the Yankees would have to flex Giancarlo Stanton to the outfield to keep his bat in the mix. Granted, that could potentially exacerbate the team’s already alarming issue of poor defense, which has been headlined by Anthony Volpe’s constant struggles at shortstop.
Importance of Aaron Judge’s Return
It is a risk the Yankees are going to have to take, though. Judge is batting an MLB-best .342 this season with a 1.160 OPS, and ranks third with 37 home runs and 85 RBI.
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Conclusion
Aaron Judge’s injury has been a significant setback for the New York Yankees, but his participation in some baseball activities is a positive sign. While his return to the lineup as a designated hitter may pose some defensive challenges, his bat is crucial to the team’s success. The Yankees will have to weigh the risks and benefits of his return, but it is clear that getting Judge back in the lineup is a priority.
FAQs
What is Aaron Judge’s current injury?
Aaron Judge is recovering from a flexor strain in his right elbow.
When is Aaron Judge expected to return to the lineup?
The Yankees are hopeful that he will return in some capacity when his 10-day injured list period is up.
What role is Aaron Judge expected to play upon his return?
He is likely to return as a designated hitter to limit stress on his elbow.
How will Aaron Judge’s return impact the team’s lineup?
His return will require Giancarlo Stanton to move to the outfield, potentially exacerbating the team’s defensive issues.
