On Tuesday, Yankees manager Aaron Boone told reporters that Judge would miss the game after an MRI revealed a bone bruise in his ribs that was causing shoulder discomfort. Boone mentioned that Judge has been dealing with the issue for some time, but no information was provided as to how or exactly when the injury occurred.
On Thursday, the Yankees announced that Judge has a stress fracture in the first rib on his right side. He will be out for at least four to six weeks. Surgery won’t be required, and Judge is expected to return at some point this season.
Naturally, it’s a huge blow for New York’s offense, despite it being a down year for Judge. The Yankee captain is slashing .248/.375/.533 with a .285 ISO. In 261 plate appearances, he produced 17 home runs, 43 runs, 38 RBIs, and five stolen bases.
Over the last three games, it’s been Paul Goldschmidt and Cody Bellinger who have manned the third place in the batting order. On defense, right field has been patrolled by Jose Caballero and Max Schuemann.
The Yankees could be getting Giancarlo Stanton and Jasson Dominguez back soon, though.
Following Thursday’s win over the Guardians, New York is 37–25 and half a game behind the Rays in the American League East.
