Aaron Judge returns to active roster, won’t hit immediately

It isn’t just New York Yankee fans that miss Aaron Judge’s big bat in the lineup and gold glove in right field. The Bombers skipper Aaron Boone misses the slugger dearly.

Before Tuesday nights game in Minnesota, it was apparent just how much Boone missed Judge.

“I’ve told him, sometimes at night I’ll write his name in the lineup just when I’m screwing around for fun,” Boone said.

On July 26, Judge was hit on the wrist by Kansas City Royal’s starter Jakob Junis. The original timetable for the right fielders return was at least three weeks. This is somewhat of an optimistic timetable for a fractured wrist. It has since been nearly eight weeks since Judge sustained the injury.

It is not clear yet when Judge’s bat will be returning to the Bronx. However, the Yankees announced on September 14, that Judge will be activated off the disabled list.

There is just one caveat. Judge will not be used as a hitter just yet. The 26-year old will only play defense and run the bases for the Bombers. On Friday, Judge entered the game and played the final two innings in his customary right field.

The Yankees have struggled to put together a consistent bout of wins since Judge went on the disabled list. Despite having the third best record in the Majors, the Yankees have not been the force they were before the All-Star break.

It is almost assured that the Yankees will be heading to the post-season. But, the Pinstripes have failed to put together a push for the AL East as the rival Red Sox have run away with the division. The Bombers are vying for the top spot in the wildcard, but are in danger of losing homefield advantage to Oakland. The 6’7 powerhouse’s return to the field is a big moment for the Yankees and its postseason hopes.

Judge did take batting practice on Monday in Minnesota, and responded well. It was his first time during his rehab to take BP. It went smoothly enough for Judge to repeat batting practice on Tuesday. Judge also threw to third and home from right field for the first time during his rehab assignment.

Boone said that Judge will continue his rehab while part of the active roster. In the coming days, Judge is expected to take swings in simulated games.

Despite not being able to swing a bat yet, Boone believes Judge’s presense on the bench will provide a spark for the team.

“He’s Aaron Judge.” Boone said

Judge is expected to be a full time player in time for next week’s series against Boston.