Yankees rely on depth as Judge's throwing remains limited this season

The New York Yankees are proceeding through a challenging stretch without Aaron Judge patrolling the outfield, as the captain’s right elbow flexor strain continues to limit his throwing and confine him to designated hitter duties. With throwing strength unlikely to return to its pre-injury level this season, the Yankees are relying on a combination of veteran outfielders and developing players to cover the positions while prioritizing Judge’s long-term health and the team’s playoff hopes.

Judge sustained the injury July 22 in Toronto when he grimaced during an outfield throw. He briefly returned for the next two games but was placed on the injured list on July 27. An MRI ruled out acute damage to the ulnar collateral ligament, and he has since returned to action as a DH on Aug. 5. In the weeks since, Judge has posted eight hits in 35 at-bats with two home runs, yet his throwing remains a work in progress. The ball remains a focal point of the recovery process as he ramps up throwing from increasing distances, currently up to about 150 feet, under the guidance of team trainers.

Manager Aaron Boone has been clear that Judge’s throwing won’t return to its former strength this year....