ANAHEIM, Calif. — The New York Yankees began a weeklong trip on the West Coast on Monday with Aaron Judge present. Manager Aaron Boone stated that if Judge's ramp-up continues to progress well this week, it is possible he could return to the Yankees during their next homestand from September 8 to 13. Boone emphasized the importance of building Judge's durability and workload as he recovers from a right rib stress fracture that has sidelined him since late May.
Judge participated in defensive drills in right field during batting practice and has been hitting indoors, although not yet against high-velocity pitches. He aims to avoid a rehab assignment by using the Trajekt machine, which simulates pitches from major league pitchers.
Boone remarked, "He’s doing well. He’s here, to continue to ramp up baseball activities. We’re getting closer, but feel good about where he’s at."
Additionally, the Yankees claimed veteran reliever John Schreiber off waivers from the Kansas City Royals, taking on approximately $600,000 remaining on his contract. Schreiber has a 3.65 ERA in 55 appearances this season and has performed well against right-handed batters, holding them to a .143 average.
Boone noted, "We think he has a lot to offer, especially in some of these righty lanes. We’re pretty familiar with him, having faced him a lot over the years with Boston and Kansas City."
Shortstop George Lombard Jr. missed his second consecutive game due to right knee inflammation but tested his knee with running and agility drills. Boone indicated that Lombard's condition continues to improve.
Pitcher Ryan Weathers is in the second week of a two-to-four week shutdown from throwing due to a left forearm flexor strain, but Boone is optimistic about Weathers potentially beginning to play catch this week.
Ryan McMahon (left thumb sprain) is set to be activated on Tuesday when rosters expand from 26 to 28. Reliever Justin Topa, who was designated for assignment on Saturday, has opted for free agency instead of accepting an outright assignment to Triple-A.