Aaron Judge returns to Yankees lineup Tuesday

New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge is set to return to the team's lineup Tuesday night, the club announced Monday. Judge has been sidelined for over three months with a stress fracture in his right first rib, missing 83 games. His return comes as the Yankees continue their push for the American League East title and a strong postseason seeding. Judge suffered the injury on April 26, reportedly while attempting a diving catch. He continued to play through discomfort for over a month before being placed on the injured list in early June. The initial expectation was a shorter absence, but lingering soreness delayed his return to baseball activities. He was eventually moved to the 60-day injured list, which required him to miss a minimum of 60 days. The slugger has been progressing through his recovery, resuming baseball activities in August. He participated in outfield and baserunning drills, faced high-velocity pitching machines, and took batting practice. On Monday, Judge took a significant step by participating in a live batting practice session at Yankee Stadium, signaling his readiness for game action.