The New York Yankees have included Aaron Judge on their current West Coast trip as the star outfielder continues his recovery from a right rib stress fracture that has kept him sidelined since late May. Manager Aaron Boone indicated on Monday that Judge’s return to the active roster could come as early as the team’s next homestand, scheduled for September 8-13, provided his progress remains on track.

Boone emphasized the importance of Judge gradually increasing his workload and durability as the key factors in determining his readiness. “I’m not going to put a date on it, but I think those things are in play now,” Boone said ahead of the Yankees’ 10-1 loss to the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Judge has been actively participating in defensive drills in right field and has been hitting inside against lower-velocity pitches during batting practice but has yet to face live pitching.

Judge has expressed a preference to bypass a traditional minor league rehabilitation assignment, instead making up for the missed game time through simulated live pitching using the Trajekt machine. This technology replicates precise pitches from major league pitchers, allowing Judge to face realistic at-bats as he builds his timing and strength.

Boone reported steady progress in Judge’s recovery, noting that the two-time American League MVP is continuing to ramp up his baseball activities with a cautious but optimistic outlook. As Judge works toward full game readiness, the Yankees’ fan base eagerly anticipates the return of one of baseball’s premier hitters during the critical stretch run of the season.