Yankees evaluate Aaron Judge status for potential postseason return

New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge is recovering from a right first rib stress fracture and has begun indoor batting practice. While currently on the 60-day injured list, the outfielder has progressed to throwing and taking practice swings. Manager Aaron Boone indicated a return could occur during the upcoming homestand against the Colorado Rockies, potentially as early as September 8. Analyst Robert Flores noted the team's postseason potential remains tied to the availability of Judge, as the offense has struggled with inconsistency during his absence. Judge has expressed a preference to avoid minor league rehab assignments, aiming instead to rejoin the major league lineup directly to serve as a designated hitter. The team remains in competition for a postseason spot as they continue their West Coast road trip.

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