The New York Yankees placed outfielder Aaron Judge on the 10-day injured list on Sunday with a right flexor strain. This injury, while concerning, does not threaten his career or place him in the category of major, career-threatening injuries like Tommy John surgery. Initial fears were alleviated when an MRI revealed no acute damage to Judge’s ulnar collateral ligament, allowing the team to breathe a sigh of relief. The Yankees are hoping for a quick return for the slugger, as he missed just his second game of the season against the Philadelphia Phillies.
Judge, who has been in the midst of an MVP-caliber season, had a platelet-rich plasma injection administered to assist in his recovery. He is expected to be back on the field in 10 to 14 days, which is a relatively short rehabilitation period for a flexor strain injury. Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism, saying, “All in all, we got good news today. I think all of us kind of feared the worst.”
Though Judge is an important part of the Yankees’ lineup, his absence may not have a long-term impact on the team’s fortunes. The Yankees remain in a strong position in the American League East, holding a 56-48 record. The team’s acquisition of Amed Rosario earlier in the season ensures they have an experienced replacement for Judge’s spot. This trade with the Washington Nationals provides them with a reliable offensive presence in the absence of their star player for a few weeks.
Judge, who won the American League MVP award in both 2022 and 2023, is continuing to make a strong case for a third title. With a .342 batting average, .449 on-base percentage, .711 slugging percentage, and 37 home runs, he is leading the league in offensive production. If he returns to full strength, this could be a crucial asset for the Yankees’ success in the second half of the season. The decision to place him on the IL, however, shows the team’s willingness to prioritize his health over short-term performance, which could be viewed as a strategic move for the long term.
The Yankees’ management has also been active in trade talks, as the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches. While Judge’s injury might delay any potential deal involving him, the team has already secured additional talent through the acquisition of Rosario. This ensures that their lineup remains competitive even as they continue to develop young players and maintain a strong roster for future seasons.
Overall, Judge’s injury does not appear to be a major setback for the Yankees. The team is in a strong position and has the depth to manage his absence without significant difficulty. While fans will be hoping to see Judge back in action soon, the Yankees’ decision to place him on the IL demonstrates a commitment to his long-term health, which could be a key factor in sustaining their success in the coming years.