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In a shocking turn of events, the Yankees are reportedly activating Aaron Judge from the disabled list tonight. According to multiple reports, the All-Star right fielder is still not ready to hit, but is available to run the bases and play defense.
Judge, 26, suffered a fractured wrist on July 26th after being hit by an errant pitch. His recovery took longer than originally anticipated, and recent reports suggest that he still feels pain in the wrist. The Yankees are optimistic that he can play before season’s end, however, and this move illustrates that clearly.
During today’s pre-game press conference, Yankees manager Aaron Boone chimed in on when and how the team plans to get a bat in Judge’s hands.
Aaron Boone said that the #Yankees are “probably a couple of days away from making a decision” about how they will get Aaron Judge some simulated at-bats.
— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) September 14, 2018
Before Judge hits in a game, Boone noted that he will hit in simulated games. Since that decision on sim games is a couple of days away, sounds like Judge could be a week or so away from being a full-time player in a game.
— Jack Curry (@JackCurryYES) September 14, 2018
Prior to landing on the disabled list, Judge was in the midst of another dynamite season. He managed a .285/.398/.548 batting line with 26 home runs. He had a 156 wRC+, proving last season was not a fluke. He remained a force at the plate.
The road to Judge’s return just became a lot clearer. He should be ready for the final push and in the postseason. That’s exciting! In the meantime, he will be the game’s largest defensive replacement.