After a three-month absence due to a fractured rib, Yankees captain Aaron Judge made his long-awaited return to action Tuesday night against the Rockies. Judge, who had been steadily progressing through his recovery in recent weeks, received clearance to rejoin the lineup without any restrictions on his availability.
Judge batted third and played right field for six innings in his comeback game, going hitless across three at-bats. The slugger struck out in his first appearance against Gabriel Hughes, flew out to center field in his second plate appearance, and was called out looking on a close pitch against Mark Manfredi in the sixth inning to conclude his night.
Manager Aaron Boone confirmed the team’s cautious approach moving forward, noting that Judge will receive a full day of rest during the remainder of the series while his workload is managed on a day-to-day basis. The organization elected to forgo a minor league rehabilitation assignment in favor of this gradual integration strategy.
Despite the hitless performance, Boone emphasized Judge’s immense value to the organization, both as a player and clubhouse leader. The Yankees brass remains optimistic about having their captain back in the lineup as they look toward the stretch run of the season.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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