Yankees Place Aaron Judge on Injured List with Elbow Strain

New York Yankees star Aaron Judge has been placed on the injured list with a flexor strain in his right elbow, sidelining him until at least August. While scans did not reveal damage to his UCL, which would be more serious, the team is cautious given that flexor injuries can precede UCL problems. Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed Judge will initially serve as a designated hitter upon his return before resuming outfield duties to allow his elbow to strengthen. Judge has been having an outstanding season, leading the American League in batting average, on-base percentage, slugging, and RBIs, making his absence a significant challenge for a Yankees team already struggling and six games behind the Blue Jays in the AL East. The injury has intensified concerns about the Yankees' playoff prospects and depth, especially with a demanding stretch of games ahead and the team's recent defensive struggles. Despite earlier downplaying, the injury now confirms the severity of Judge's condition, with the club focused on a careful recovery process to avoid further damage.