Aaron Judge's 'Rib Injury' May Be Something More Serious As Concerns Heighten
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Aaron Judge has been sidelined with what the Yankees initially called a bone bruise in his upper right rib, but multiple imaging tests and specialist consultations suggest the injury may be more serious.
- Judge is seeing Dr. Gregory Pearl, a specialist in thoracic outlet syndrome, a condition that could potentially sideline him for the entire season if diagnosed.
- Judge has experienced shoulder discomfort affecting his swing, and his recent offensive performance has declined, hitting .206 with one home run since May 11.
- Yankees ace Gerrit Cole emphasized the team's need to step up in Judge's absence, while first baseman Ben Rice has emerged as a key offensive contributor this season.
- The Yankees are currently a half-game behind the Rays in the AL East, and losing Judge for an extended period would severely impact their World Series hopes.