New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge has been diagnosed with a stress fracture of the first rib on his right side and is expected to miss significant time.
Judge underwent testing this week after experiencing discomfort that had persisted for an extended period. The three-time American League MVP missed three consecutive games while the Yankees worked to determine the source of the issue.
According to the team, Judge underwent an MRI, CT scan and X-rays and was evaluated by multiple specialists, including a vascular surgeon in Dallas.
The Yankees announced that Judge will undergo repeat imaging in four to six weeks to evaluate healing and determine the next steps in his recovery. Despite the lengthy recovery timeline, the team stated that Judge is expected to return at some point during the 2026 season.
Pro Football Doc Analysis
Pro Football Doc said Yankees fans should not immediately assume the diagnosis will lead to thoracic outlet syndrome surgery.
"I get Yankees fans' panic," Pro Football Doc posted on X. "Would be surprised if thoracic outlet syndrome and surgery was the outcome."
The fact that thoracic outlet syndrome has reportedly been ruled out is encouraging, as that diagnosis can sometimes require surgery and significantly longer recovery timelines. The current focus will be on allowing the stress fracture to heal before determining when Judge can safely resume baseball activities.
Current Outlook
Judge is expected to miss significant time while the fracture heals. The Yankees will reassess his progress with additional imaging in four to six weeks, and the organization remains optimistic he will return later this season.
Before the injury, Judge was batting .248 with 17 home runs and a .907 OPS in 59 games.
