Yankees injuries: Amid awful news, Max Fried, Ryan McMahon plan in works; Aaron Judge’s forecast

The New York Yankees faced yet another round of injuries this season, as reported by Manager Aaron Boone during Wednesday's pre-game news conference. Despite the struggles, Boone provided some positive updates on several injured players, including Max Fried, Ryan McMahon, and Aaron Judge.

Max Fried, the left-handed pitcher, has been dealing with a left elbow bone bruise and has been on the 15-day injured list since August 17. If Fried recovers from his latest bullpen session without complications, he could return to the team as early as Saturday to start one of the day-night doubleheader games against the Red Sox. Fried's impressive 2026 season with the Yankees saw him pitch to a 4-4 record, a 2.81 ERA, and 15 starts.

Ryan McMahon, the third baseman, has been battling a grade 2 left thumb strain and has been on the 10-day injured list since August 21. McMahon is expected to return to action by August 31, either during a California trip or after the roster expands to 28 players on September 1. The third baseman has been hitting, fielding, and throwing since his injury, showing positive signs for his recovery.

Aaron Judge, the right fielder, has been dealing with a right rib stress fracture and has been on the 10-day injured list since June 5. Initially transferred to the 60-day injured list on July 18, Judge is now expected to return to the team by September. With 2026 stats of .248 average, 53-for-214, 17 HR, 38 RBI, 5 SB, 42 BB, and 72 K, Aaron Judge remains a crucial player for the Yankees.