Major League Baseball contenders are bracing for high-stakes stretch runs as multiple impact players edge closer to activation from the injured list. Superstars and frontline pitchers across both leagues are targeting August and September returns to bolster postseason pushes.
Aaron Judge Nears Return for New York Yankees Homestand
New York Yankees captain and three-time AL MVP Aaron Judge is set to potentially return to the lineup as soon as next week during the team’s upcoming homestand, according to the main source. Judge has been sidelined since May 31 due to a right rib stress fracture. He recently traveled with the team on its West Coast road trip and took batting practice in San Diego. The offense that has ranked 28th in OPS since June.
Corbin Burnes and Nick Pivetta Target Rotation Boosts
In the National League West, the Arizona Diamondbacks are nearing a potential rotation reinforcement. Corbin Burnes, signed before the 2025 season to be a shutdown ace, underwent Tommy John surgery just 11 starts into his tenure, with a right teres major strain further prolonging his recovery. According to the main source, Burnes recently made his first rehab starts and could return within the next few weeks to aid Arizona’s Wild Card battle. Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres are also tracking right-hander Nick Pivetta. Pivetta posted a 2.87 ERA with 190 strikeouts across 31 starts last season but has missed time since mid-April with right elbow inflammation, though he is now progressing toward a return.
Pro Tip: Monitor minor league rehab assignments closely during the final weeks of the season. Teams typically require pitchers to complete multiple simulated or minor league outings before reinstating them from the injured list, making rehab start trackers vital for fantasy managers and fans alike.
Garrett Crochet and Shohei Ohtani Navigate Recovery Timelines
Boston Red Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet threw a 16-pitch side session off the mound, marking his first bullpen work in over three months. Crochet has been out since late April with left shoulder inflammation following a sluggish start to the year, though the team leads the AL East while receiving strong performances from Sonny Gray, Ranger Suarez, and Payton Tolle. The main source indicates Crochet could return in a relief role later this month. For the Los Angeles Dodgers, two-way star Shohei Ohtani has not pitched since July 3 due to left knee, right biceps, and overall soreness. Ohtani’s pitching status remains uncertain as he deals with lingering physical ailments.
Carlos Correa and Robert Suarez Push Toward September Action
Houston Astros infielder Carlos Correa is ramping up workout intensity and running at 95% at the team’s Spring Training facility in West Palm Beach, Florida, according to the main source. Correa underwent surgery on May 11 for a left ankle peroneus brevis tendon repair and is targeting a late-season comeback to add lineup depth for the AL West contenders. In Atlanta, Braves right-hander Robert Suarez threw a pain-free bullpen session and is scheduled for a 25-pitch session. Suarez posted a 0.56 ERA in his first 31 appearances before right elbow inflammation sidelined him in late June.
Did You Know? Carlos Correa holds a career .860 OPS across 85 postseason games, making his potential return a significant historical advantage for teams seeking veteran playoff experience in October.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Aaron Judge expected to return for the Yankees?
According to the main source, Aaron Judge could return as soon as next week during New York’s upcoming homestand after recovering from a right rib stress fracture.
What injury has kept Corbin Burnes out for the Diamondbacks?
Corbin Burnes underwent Tommy John surgery 11 starts into his tenure with Arizona, with a right teres major strain further extending his recovery timeline.
Is Shohei Ohtani still pitching for the Dodgers?
Ohtani has not pitched since July 3 due to left knee, right biceps, and overall soreness, leaving his return to the mound for the remainder of the season uncertain.
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