Aaron Judge sidelined by rib stress fracture, Yankees adjust lineup

The New York Yankees placed Aaron Judge on the 10‑day injured list after doctors diagnosed a stress fracture of his first right rib. The injury, which first manifested after a dive for a ball in late April, will keep the three‑time AL MVP out for four to six weeks, with a re‑evaluation scheduled in that period. Judge, who was batting .248 with 17 home runs and 38 RBIs, has been a central offensive force; his absence has already contributed to a loss against the Red Sox and diminished the team's scoring depth. The club recalled prospect Spencer Jones from Triple‑A to fill Judge’s roster spot, while other outfielders such as José Caballero and Max Schuemann have seen increased playing time. The injury also opened the AL MVP race, putting Houston Astros slugger Yordan Álvarez and Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. in the lead. Yankees officials, including GM Brian Cashman and former ace C.C. Sabathia, expressed confidence that the team’s overall depth will allow it to remain competitive in the AL East while Judge recovers.