Reinforcements Could Be Coming For Yankees As Game-Changing Slugger Makes Progress

New York could have its best player back in the lineup in the not-so-distant future

Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees have dealt with a wide range of injuries this season but the club could be finally starting to get healthy.

New York has underachieved this season and currently is tied for last place in the American League East with a 52-47 record. In most divisions, the Yankees certainly would be higher, but the AL East has been a juggernaut so far this season. New York entered the 2023 campaign with title aspirations but injuries have derailed the season.

The biggest injury the Yankees certainly have dealt with is the loss of 2022 American League Most Valuable Player Aaron Judge, but the slugger may finally be on his way back to the big leagues. Judge, along with relief pitcher Jonathan Loaisiga are set to play in a simulated game Sunday afternoon in a step back to the big leagues, according to YES Network.

"Aaron Judge is expected to participate in a simulated game this morning that will also feature Jonathan Loaisiga. YES will have a video at 12:30 pm when coverage of the Yankees and Royals begins starting with Yankees Batting Practice Today."

If Judge were to return to the lineup shortly, it could be an absolute game-changer. The 31-year-old hasn't appeared in a game for New York since June 3 but was having another Herculean season before suffering a toe injury. Loaisiga hasn't appeared in a game for New York since April 5 since suffering an elbow injury. The return of both Judge and Loaisiga coupled with a trade deadline move or two could catapult the Yankees back to contender status.