Judge Returns to Right Field for Yankees, Mixed Results vs Blue Jays

Aaron Judge returned to right field for the New York Yankees on Friday night for the first time since straining the flexor in his right elbow on July 25, but his long-awaited defensive comeback produced mixed results and renewed questions about how the team will protect its superstar down the stretch. Judge started in right at Yankee Stadium against the Toronto Blue Jays after more than six weeks away from the position; he had been used exclusively as the designated hitter since coming off the injured list on August 5.

The most scrutinized play came in the first inning when Judge fielded a two run single and instead of attempting a throw home he flipped a short relay to the infield. Statcast measured the relay at 67.9 miles per hour, well below Judge’s usual arm strength, and a Toronto run scored unchallenged. The Blue Jays went on to win 7-1, a loss that intensified debate about whether Judge is ready for regular outfield work. Judge said after the game, “I wouldn’t be in the outfield if I wasn’t able to make that throw,” and added he felt “great” getting back on the grass and was “ready to get it going.”

Manager Aaron Boone described the team’s approach as cautious. Boone said...