Aargh! Ribs fracture sidelined → Finally begins outdoor training 'return countdown' Could he bolster the fierce race for standings?

*This content was translated by AI.

Aaron Judge (33), the New York Yankees superstar who was sidelined due to a stress fracture in his ribs, is accelerating toward his return. He has finally begun outdoor training.

U.S. media outlet ESPN reported on the 6th (Korean time) that "Judge received medical clearance for 'light activity' following re-examination of his fracture site and is confident he will return within this season."

On this day, Judge completed field training including stretching and jogging ahead of a home game against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Since May 31, Judge has not played in any games for over two months, focusing solely on rehabilitation.

Judge emphasized, "Returning within this season is a natural goal. I have never once thought I would be unable to play."

However, before beginning full-scale technical training such as batting and throwing, he will undergo additional detailed examinations.

Judge stated, "My current condition is good, but we need to reconfirm progress through re-examination. I hope to soon begin training with a bat and throwing the ball."

Following Judge's absence, the Yankees saw their core lineup decimated as Giancarlo Stanton and Cody Bellinger also fell to injuries in succession.

To overcome the slump in offense, the team acquired Luis Garcia and Elliott Ramos via trade to minimize the gap left by Judge.

The Yankees, currently in second place in the American League East Division, need Judge's strength to compete for the postseason and secure the division title. They trail first-place Tampa Bay Rays by just four games. In the American League Wild Card race, they hold first place.

Of course, due to his long absence from actual competition, it is expected that some time will pass before he steps back onto the field. Nevertheless, even Judge's resumption of outdoor training has left Yankees fans unable to hide their expectations.

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*This content was translated by AI.