New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge is showing encouraging progress after receiving a second platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection in his injured right big toe. While he hasn't yet resumed baseball activities, manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism about Judge's recovery, noting reduced swelling and increased mobility. Judge sustained the injury on June 3rd after colliding with the outfield wall at Dodger Stadium.
The reigning American League MVP's absence has significantly impacted the Yankees, who hold a 9-14 record without him compared to 31-19 when he's in the lineup. General manager Brian Cashman acknowledged the team's struggles but emphasized the length of the season and their commitment to improvement.
In positive news, center fielder Harrison Bader returned to the Yankees lineup on Tuesday after recovering from a right hamstring strain. Bader expressed confidence in his recovery, stating that he felt ready to contribute fully to the team. He went 1 for 3 with a stolen base and a run in a 3-1 victory against the Seattle Mariners.
Bader's return provides a much-needed boost to the Yankees' offense, which has struggled mightily in June, hitting a major league-worst .196. First baseman Anthony Rizzo, who recently dealt with a neck injury, has also seen his performance dip. Meanwhile, 2020 batting champion DJ LeMahieu is currently hitting .167 since mid-May. Boone has opted to rest LeMahieu to allow him to work on his mechanics.
Starting pitcher Carlos Rodón, who signed a lucrative six-year contract with the Yankees, made his first game appearance since spring training on Tuesday. Rodón pitched three innings for the Somerset Patriots in a minor league rehab start, allowing one run and striking out five. Boone expressed encouragement with Rodón's progress, and the left-hander is expected to make a few more rehab starts before rejoining the Yankees rotation in early July. Fellow left-hander Nestor Cortes, sidelined with a rotator cuff strain, also took a step forward in his recovery by throwing from 75 feet.
The Yankees hope that the positive developments regarding Judge, Bader, and Rodón will help the team turn things around as they navigate a challenging stretch of the season.
