Yankees star Aaron Judge has not played in a game since June 3 due to what was described as a sprained toe after kicking a slab of concrete against the right field wall while chasing down a fly ball at Dodger Stadium.
While Judge is reportedly nearing a return to baseball activities, the initial injury that was reported is actually more serious than originally thought. Judge told reporters on Saturday afternoon that he tore a ligament in his toe and is still dealing with some pain when he walks.
There is no official timetable for Judge’s return to the lineup, and manager Aaron Boone wasn’t going to quantify how long his star outfielder would be out. Boone expects Judge to return this season, but wouldn’t guarantee it.
“That’s an absolute. I can’t say that about anyone,” Boone said, per Bryan Hoch.
Judge also declined to give a timeline, when asked about a potential August return by Hoch.
“I’m not giving you any timeline,” he said. “There’s no need. I’ve just got to get better and then I’ll be out there.”
Entering Saturday’s game against the Rangers, the Yankees have lost two straight and seven of their last 10, falling to 41–35 on the season and to third place in the AL East.
A return to the lineup for Judge would be welcomed, as the team has struggled mightily offensively since he’s been out.
