May 31, 2023; Seattle, Washington, USA; New York Yankees designated hitter Aaron Judge (99) is pictured during batting practice before a game against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports
MLB: New York Yankees at Seattle Mariners
(New York, NY) – After being without team captain and reigning AL MVP Aaron Judge for the past week, the Yankees and their fans are understandably looking forward to his return.
The slugging outfielder injured his toe after falling into the bullpen gate at Dodgers Stadium, ultimately suffering a sprain. But it’s not clear when he’ll ultimately get back on the field.
As the team’s weekend series with Boston came to a close, Judge said “there’s still a bunch of stuff going on in there. But improvements each day, which has been a good sign. No step backs or any holdups. We’re on the right track.”
Manager Aaron Boone has struck a similar tone, insisting the team doesn’t have a clear timetable as to when Judge could return, and probably won’t know for sure until the swelling goes down.
The team and Judge are wary of making the injury worse, and sapping the right handed hitter of his power, given how right handed hitters turn on their back foot while hitting.
Teammate DJ LeMahieu dealt with a similar situation last year after he fractured the sesamoid bone in his right big toe, and suffered ligament damage in his right second toe.
For now, the Yankees will have to trudge on without their top offensive threat, including during the upcoming Subway Series.
That said, the Mets are also missing their top bat in Pete Alonso, who suffered a bone bruise in his wrist after being hit by a pitch. The Mets say they’re more clear as to Alonso’s potential return – which it seems is likely three to four weeks away.
