THE JUDGE IS STILL OUT OF THE CHAMBERS

As of right now the Yankees don't have an outfield. Aaron Hicks is still in Tommy John rehab, Giancarlo Stanton has a strained right calf, and Aaron Judge has right shoulder soreness. However, it seems that Judge is doing well but still is not ready to make a return until at least the end of next week.

“I know he hit the cage today (Thursday) ... I don’t know his exact schedule through the weekend, but he’s doing well,” Boone said.“I don’t envision us having to squeeze into two, two-and-a-half weeks in...I feel like he’ll have plenty of time based on what we’re seeing day in and day out right now.

With this optimism from Boone it is certain that fans will see the Judge soon. The next steps will be for him to take on-field batting practice, then he will face live pitching in a game simulation, and from there he will be added to the Spring Training lineup.

It is important to remember that although it is frustrating for the fans to not see their favorite player, it is important for the Yankees to be careful with their players. The team has already lost Luis Severino and James Paxton for 3-4 months, so not rushing Judge or anyone else into playing will help prevent a repeat of last year.

--Missy O'Rourke
BYB Contributor
Twitter: @missy_orourke