The New York Yankees received troubling news Thursday night as captain Aaron Judge was diagnosed with a stress fracture in his right first rib, an injury expected to sideline the three-time American League MVP for at least four to six weeks.
Judge, who has missed New York’s last three games, will rest and limit baseball activities while the injury heals. The Yankees said he will be re-evaluated in roughly a month to determine the next phase of his recovery, though the organization remains optimistic he will return later this season.
The diagnosis comes after manager Aaron Boone initially described the injury as a bone bruise. Seeking further answers, Judge met with a specialist, and additional testing revealed the stress fracture.
The loss of Judge creates a major challenge for a Yankees club counting on its captain to anchor the lineup. One of baseball’s most feared power hitters, Judge has topped 50 home runs in each of the last two seasons and remains among the game’s premier offensive threats.
In 59 games this year, the seven-time All-Star has hit 17 home runs while batting .248.
The Yankees will make a corresponding roster move on Friday before the team opens a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox in the Bronx.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
