Judge Takes Positive Step in Rib Recovery but No Timeline Set

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone has acknowledged ongoing concerns about star outfielder Aaron Judge's recovery from a broken right rib, confirming on Saturday that while progress is being made, there remains no clear timeline for the slugger's return to the lineup. The uncertainty surrounding Judge's availability adds significant pressure to the team's roster planning as they navigate the final weeks of the 2026 regular season.

Judge took a notable step forward on Friday, August 14, by playing catch for the first time since being injured. The activity occurred in New York after medical scans on August 5 revealed sufficient healing to clear him for light workouts, including running and upper-body resistance training. Before the Yankees' game in Toronto on August 15, Boone described the latest development as a positive but early phase. "Just part of the ramp-up to baseball activity," Boone said. "Hopefully he'll continue to progress through this week. We'll see what else gets introduced."

The three-time American League MVP has not played since May 31, when he appeared to sustain the injury on a diving catch attempt in Houston. He was placed on the injured list on June 2,...