Yankees’ Aaron Judge Returns to Outfield First Start Since July

The New York Yankees got a big boost Friday as Aaron Judge finally returned to right field. He hadn’t played defense since late July, when a right flexor strain forced him out of the outfield and into a designated hitter role for weeks.

During Judge’s absence, Giancarlo Stanton took over outfield duties. The Yankees kept their biggest bats in the lineup, but having Judge back in his usual spot gives them hope for a spark as the season heads into a crucial stretch.

Aaron Judge’s Injury Timeline

Judge’s problems started July 22, when he hurt his right flexor making a throw to the plate against the Blue Jays. That injury landed him on the injured list and left a big hole in the Yankees’ defense and lineup.

He came back on August 5, but only as a designated hitter while he kept rehabbing his arm. The Yankees tried to be careful, keeping his bat in play without pushing his recovery too soon.

Stanton Steps Up in the Outfield

With Judge out of the field, Giancarlo Stanton stepped in for more outfield innings. He hasn’t always been eager to take on that role, especially with his own history of injuries.

Stanton’s defense graded out poorly, with a minus-2 Outs Above Average, but his offense made up for it. Manager Aaron Boone had some flexibility to mix up the lineup, keeping both Stanton and Judge’s bats in the order.

Sharing Time in the Outfield

Now that Judge is back in right, Boone says he and Stanton will share the outfield for a bit. That way, Judge can ease back into defense and Stanton doesn’t get overworked.

Manager Boone’s Optimism

Boone sounded genuinely excited to have Judge back in the outfield. He thinks Judge’s presence can energize both the defense and the lineup.

With Judge’s power, patience, and glove, the Yankees hope he’ll give them a late-season boost in the playoff race.

Lingering Questions About Arm Strength

Even though Judge is back in the field, some questions about his arm strength remain. He’s taken it slow with his throwing program, and during pregame work in Houston on Thursday, he didn’t really let loose on any throws from right to home.

Boone wouldn’t say if Judge’s arm is 100%, but insisted the Yankees won’t risk putting him in the field if it could cost him the rest of the season.

Looking Ahead

With both Judge and Stanton rotating in the outfield, the Yankees can keep their stars fresher and maybe avoid more injuries. If Judge can ramp up his throwing over the next few weeks, the Yankees’ outfield might become a real weapon in October.

Key Takeaways from Judge’s Return

• First defensive start since his July 22 injury against Toronto.
• He’d played as the designated hitter from Aug. 5 until Friday, when he finally got back to right field.
• Giancarlo Stanton covered the outfield during that stretch, though his defensive numbers aren’t great.
• Manager Aaron Boone says he’ll rotate Judge and Stanton in the outfield for now.
• People are still wondering about Judge’s arm strength after the injury.

The Yankees hope Judge’s slow return to right field pays off as the season reaches its peak. Honestly, if his arm doesn’t bounce back by the playoffs, New York could face some tough questions.

 
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