NEW YORK – The Yankees may have lost designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton for the season because of a calf injury, but they are expected to have right fielder Aaron Judge back on the field in time for the postseason.
Judge hasn’t played in a game since May 31st, when the Yanks played the Athletics, because of a stress fracture in his right rib. During that series in West Sacramento, he felt discomfort in his shoulder and upper rib area while taking swings. He went 2-for-12 (.167) with four RBI in those three games.
This week, according to Yankees manager Aaron Boone, Judge took batting practice in the cage, threw 100 feet in the outfield and shagged fly balls.
Judge is doing more than just getting back into playing shape. Before games, he is often at hitter’s meetings and spotted in the dugout giving tips to his teammates.
“He has a lot of experience with different things. He is one of the guys who speaks up,” Boone said. “His presence is always a welcome sight. He is having the right conversations with guys based on the game and what they need.”
In the right fielder’s absence, the Yankees are 38-34. For the season, they are 74-57, 3 ½ games behind the Rays in the American League East race.
Judge is in his 10th full season with the Yankees and remains their best player. Before the rib injury, Judge had a slash line of .248/.533/.907 with 17 home runs and 38 RBI. Outside of Judge, the Yankees have used seven right fielders with Jasson Domínguez, who is currently in the Minor Leagues playing for Triple A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, getting the bulk of the playing time.
