It’s the story New York Yankees fans never wanted to hear: Aaron Judge, the team’s cornerstone, managing an injury. Even in Spring Training, the mere mention of Judge and a health concern sends a shiver down spines. After all, this isn’t some benchwarmer with a sprained toe—this is the face of the franchise. With Opening Day mere weeks away, the tension is high. Will the captain be ready, or is this a sign of more absences to come?

The central dilemma here is clear. The captain is laser-focused on getting back on the field for Opening Day, but the Bombers are playing the long game. His determination is admirable, but the team knows caution now means fewer games lost later in the season. Fans bite their nails—the Yankees need a healthy Judge to truly contend, but a rushed return could derail that hope.

Aaron Judge’s Injury: Ab Trouble, Not an Oblique Repeat

Let’s get to the point: Judge is battling yet another injury, but this time his troublesome oblique isn’t the culprit. After a rough run that included lower body trouble in ’22 and a string of hip and toe issues last year, the discomfort now centers on his abdomen. As he told MLB.com, “I think just from swinging from November all the way until now, every single day, it put some wear and tear on it.”

It’s a nagging issue, as is the Yankees’ decision to delay his return. As manager Aaron Boone noted, it comes down to, “Why are we rushing to get in there mid-week if we’re not totally ready?”

A clean MRI offers some reassurance, but a healthy dose of caution remains. Judge himself recognizes the importance of addressing things now. “I think just cage work today… The main goal is to be game-ready for Opening Day [in Houston on March 28]. I’m just gonna work towards that,” the All-Rise reflected in The Post today.

Read More: Aaron Judge’s Shortened Spring Game Kicks Yankees Injury Rumor Mill Into Overdrive

While the MRI and Aaron Judge’s attitude offer a glimmer of hope, it’s undeniable that a sense of unease surrounds the situation. Will he have enough at-bats before the season starts? And perhaps most worryingly, are we seeing a pattern of wear and tear that could impact his long-term performance?

Why Yankees’ Caution Could be the Smarter Play

The Bombers are wise to be cautious with the captain’s injury, given his history of core muscle issues. Prioritizing prevention might sting in the short term, but it’s a gamble they can’t afford when playoff hopes rest on a healthy Judge. This approach reflects a welcome shift in sports medicine, emphasizing long-term well-being over pushing through pain for immediate results.

Aaron Judge’s focus on cumulative wear and tear suggests the injury stems from overuse, requiring a different management approach than a specific muscle tear. Will the ‘Opening Day’ deadline influence decisions about his readiness, leading to a too-early return? Or will the Yankees play it extra safe, risking a slow start to the season?

Despite positive signs, core muscle issues can be unpredictable. Even with optimism and excellent medical care, there’s always a chance of setbacks. This uncertainty is precisely why the Yankees’ cautious approach might be the best long-term strategy.

Read More: As Aaron Judge and Juan Soto Lead AL MVP Odds, Will Injuries Impact the Yankees Captain’s Chances?

The bottom line? This is a waiting game. Fans, the Yankees, and Judge himself eagerly anticipate his return, but a full recovery remains the top priority. Because the possibility of a hampered Aaron Judge would be a far greater blow than a few missed Spring Training games. Need a break from the injury updates? Tune into MLB Spring Breakout Live on ES Fancast for a brighter look at the season’s potential stars!