Yankees: Aaron Boone gives optimistic return date for Aaron Judge

Fans of New York feel the pressure of not having Aaron Judge out with an injury, as they are last in the AL East. That pressure might not be there much longer since Aaron Boone has announced a possible return for Aaron Judge.

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge has not played a game since he injured his toe on June 3 when he crashed into the wall during the Yankees and Dodgers contest.

The New York Yankees have been on a downward spiral since that game, placing them into last place in the AL East by nine games, tied with the Boston Red Sox.

All of that might hopefully be coming to an end soon.

Yankees: The steps Aaron Judge is making to come back

Judge took live batting practice on July 24, where he saw pitches from New York Yankees pitcher Jonathan Loaisiga. Judge saw 16 pitches, where he fouled off five but could not put the ball into play.

The live batting practice was a big step for Judge to return to the field. During an interview with MLB.com, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said:

"It’s not going to get any harder than that, facing Jonny Lo as your first live session."

Judge continues to make his steps to return to the field by playing in a simulated game in Tampa on Tuesday afternoon at the Yankees’ complex. Judge played several innings, taking at-bats, running the bases, and playing defense. The main question is, when will Judge be back in the Yankee pinstripes again?

Yankees: Aaron Boone reveals a possible return date for Aaron Judge

Aaron Boone explained that Judge’s return is possible for the crucial Yankees and Orioles AL East series this weekend.

If this return happens, that means Judge will skip the normal routine of the minor-league rehab assignment. If Judge can come back this weekend and show that he can put the ball in play and also that he can still play defense, then this will be very helpful against the Orioles.

The Orioles have run away with the AL East, and if the Yankees can get Judge back and win the weekend series against them, then the Yankees have a chance to be right back in the running for the playoffs.