AARON JUDGE NEARS RETURN FROM RIB INJURY FOR YANKEES

Aaron Judge is set to rejoin the New York Yankees roster after a prolonged absence from injury. The captain sustained a stress fracture of the first rib on his right side and has not played since 31 May. He initially spent time on the 10-day injured list before being moved to the 60-day IL as his recovery extended beyond initial expectations. Judge recently received medical clearance for outdoor running and has since progressed to weight training and full-body exercises, with imaging results described as positive.

Judge has made clear his preference to avoid a minor league rehab assignment, stating he sees no benefit in using at-bats away from the major league roster. He has remained with the team throughout his recovery and began indoor batting practice before joining them on their West Coast road trip. Manager Aaron Boone indicated he does not plan to restrict Judge's playing time by rotating him between short and longer appearances, instead intending to play him as frequently as possible with occasional rest days. Judge believes being part of the major league roster will better assist his return to form.

Reports suggest the Yankees may activate Judge during the second week of September as the regular season enters its final stretch. The timing of his return carries significance for the club's postseason hopes, with analysis suggesting his availability will prove decisive in their playoff prospects. Trent Grisham, an outfield teammate, recently joined the injured list with a right hamstring strain, potentially creating additional roster flexibility for Judge's activation.