Aaron Judge plays catch as Yankees remain hopeful for his return this season

Aaron Judge played catch for the first time since going on the injured list due to a stress fracture in his ribs. This activity marks a step toward returning before the end of the regular season, with 39 games left. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism about Judge's potential return, though emphasized that more rehabilitation activities are necessary. The Yankees have struggled offensively without him, sliding to seven games back in the AL East and currently leading the wild-card race. Fellow injured players Giancarlo Stanton and Cody Bellinger also showed progress in their recoveries.

• 11:21 PMYahoo Sports — Aaron Judge plays catch for first time since going on IL, Yankees still hope he can return this season