UPDATE: New York Yankees star Aaron Judge has avoided surgery on his right elbow, but left-hander Carlos Rodón is facing an uncertain start to the season after undergoing an operation this week. This news comes just after the Yankees’ elimination from the playoffs, creating immediate concern for fans and team dynamics as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Judge’s elbow injury, caused by a strained flexor tendon during a game on July 22, limited his throwing capabilities throughout the latter part of the season. Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed today that an MRI revealed no surgical intervention is necessary for Judge, who finished the season with impressive stats: a .331 batting average, 53 home runs, and 114 RBIs. Boone stated, “He’ll take some time off and continue to do strengthening things and rehab and stuff,” indicating a positive outlook for Judge’s return.
Despite Judge’s promising recovery, the situation for Rodón is more serious. The left-handed pitcher underwent surgery on Wednesday, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, to remove loose bodies from his left elbow and shave a bone spur. Boone announced this could delay Rodón’s start to the season by a couple of weeks, as he is required to abstain from throwing for eight weeks. Rodón, who is set to turn 33 in December, recorded a solid 3.09 ERA in the previous season and will be a critical asset for the Yankees moving forward.
Boone also provided updates on other players, confirming that slugger Giancarlo Stanton does not require elbow surgery, a relief for fans hoping to see him in action next season. In a shakeup of coaching staff, Boone announced that bullpen coach Mike Harkey and first base coach Travis Chapman will not return for the 2026 season, alongside assistant hitting coach Pat Roessler.
As the Yankees prepare for the upcoming season, the focus will be on Judge’s rehabilitation and Rodón’s recovery timeline. Fans are eager to see how these developments will impact the team’s performance in the highly competitive landscape of Major League Baseball. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation evolves.
