Aaron Judge Takes Batting Practice, Nearing Return to Yankees

Aaron Judge engaged in batting practice against live pitching on Monday at Yankee Stadium, signaling that the Yankees captain is approaching a return from a rib injury sustained in late May.

This practice occurred on an off day before the Yankees begin a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies. Manager Aaron Boone noted that Judge is nearing readiness to play, although it remains uncertain if he will be activated for Tuesday's game.

Judge last played on May 31, after suffering a stress fracture of the first rib on his right side during a game on April 26. The Yankees' performance has been affected by his absence, as they held a record of 36-23 when he was injured but fell to 45-38 without him. Judge has expressed a desire to avoid a minor-league rehab assignment, and Boone is considering various options for his return, including limited playing time. The Yankees currently sit four games behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East.