Aaron Judge Is Back! Yankees Get Their Superstar Back for the Final Stretch
The New York Yankees received huge news heading into the final stretch of the 2026 season. Aaron Judge has been activated from the 60-day injured list and is ready to return to action after missing more than three months with a stress fracture in his right rib.
Judge suffered the injury in late April while making a spectacular catch in the outfield. Before going down, the Yankees captain was batting .248 with 17 home runs in 59 games, numbers he will now look to improve during the most important part of the season.
The powerful slugger is scheduled to return to the lineup this Tuesday against the Colorado Rockies. Judge will not go through a minor-league rehabilitation assignment, although he did previously participate in a live batting practice session. The Yankees could carefully manage his playing time during his first few games as he works his way back into game shape.
Judge’s absence had a major impact on New York’s offense. During the period he was sidelined, the Yankees ranked 26th in Major League Baseball in runs scored, highlighting just how much the team missed one of its most important offensive weapons.
Now, with Judge back in the lineup, the Yankees hope to regain a significant portion of their offensive firepower as they continue to hold the top American League Wild Card position, although they remain behind in the race for the AL East title.
Aaron Judge’s return comes at the most important point of the schedule. If he can quickly regain his offensive rhythm, his presence could provide the Yankees with the boost they need to make a strong push toward the postseason.
Breaking: The Yankees have activated Aaron Judge from the injured list, the team announced.
— ESPN (@espn) September 8, 2026
He will make his return Tuesday against the Rockies. pic.twitter.com/hJGgA04Jy3