When does Aaron Judge return? Yankees manager gives major injury update

Aaron Judge's prolonged absence has left the Yankees without one of their biggest offensive threats as they push for a playoff spot.

Aaron Judge appears to be making steady progress toward a return to the New York Yankees lineup as he recovers from a rib stress fracture.

Aaron Judge appears to be making steady progress toward a return to the New York Yankees lineup. (Getty Images via AFP)

His prolonged absence has left the Yankees without one of their biggest offensive threats as they push for a playoff spot, with a wild-card berth appearing to be the more likely path unless the standings shift significantly.

The latest encouraging development came from Yankees manager Aaron Boone, who revealed that Judge is expected to step into the batter’s box against live pitching early next week.

Before he can return to the active roster, however, Judge will need to complete at least two live-pitching sessions as part of his recovery process.

MLB insider Bryan Hoch reported the development on X and wrote, “Aaron Judge is scheduled to face live pitching on Monday at Yankee Stadium, Aaron Boone said. Pitcher is still TBD. Judge said he would need to do that at least twice before being activated.”

This story is being updated.