Yankees Announce Update on Concerning Aaron Judge Development

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 28, 2026 4:36 PM ET

The New York Yankees have a roster capable of making a deep postseason run heading into the 2026 MLB season, and the biggest reason for that remains right‑handed slugger Aaron Judge.

While Judge has a strong supporting cast, especially with outfielder Cody Bellinger returning after re‑signing in free agency, it is difficult to find a better player to build around than the Yankees captain.

The 33‑year‑old veteran is coming off his third MVP season in 2025, a year that also included his seventh All‑Star selection, his fifth Silver Slugger Award and his first batting title. At this stage, there are virtually no weaknesses in his game.

The only issue that limited him last season was a right elbow flexor strain that affected his throwing ability in the outfield and impacted his availability.

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge (99)© Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

As the offseason continues, that injury has remained a point of concern for the Yankees, especially with Judge preparing to captain Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

However, New York manager Aaron Boone offered an update on Judge’s status and how his arm has responded after he chose not to undergo surgery on Wednesday.

Boone said that Judge’s elbow is “doing really well,” and as he ramps up his throwing program this winter, “he looks great,” according to MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch.

Aaron Judge’s elbow is “doing really well” as he ramps up throwing in preparation for the WBC, Aaron Boone said. “He looks great.”
— Bryan Hoch ⚾️ (@BryanHoch) January 28, 2026

This update is encouraging not only for Team USA, but also for Judge himself after a season in which his arm strength became a real concern.

Opposing teams were far more aggressive on the bases, often challenging him because he simply could not make the throws he is known for. Restoring that part of his game is essential, especially as the Yankees look to maximize every edge in a year where expectations are sky‑high.

New York will need Judge at full strength if they hope to return to the World Series in 2026, and his ability to stay healthy has become even more important as he enters his mid‑30s.

Judge is not getting any younger, and the pressure continues to build for him to lead this core to a championship before the window begins to tighten. A fully functioning arm gives him a better chance to remain in the outfield consistently, which helps the Yankees both defensively and with roster flexibility as they prepare for another title push.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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