Judge goes to Yanks’ Double-A ballpark in New Jersey to hit in attempt to play later in postseason

New York Yankees star Aaron Judge visited Somerset, New Jersey, on Wednesday to engage in live batting practice at the team's Double-A ballpark. The 34-year-old slugger is recovering from a leg injury and aims to return for potential postseason play if the Yankees advance. Judge was sidelined since September 16 due to a strained right calf and did not make the roster for the AL Wild Card Series against the Boston Red Sox.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone confirmed that Judge was receiving treatment. Judge has played in only 66 games this season, posting a .241 batting average with 18 home runs and 41 RBIs, along with an .871 OPS. If the Yankees move on to a best-of-five Division Series against Tampa Bay, the first round would commence on Saturday. Boone expressed uncertainty about Judge's availability for the next game.

Meanwhile, left-hander Ryan Weathers, who has been sidelined with a left forearm flexor strain since August 22, was set to throw a bullpen session at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday. Right-hander Clarke Schmidt, who made his major league debut on July 11 following Tommy John surgery, will not pitch again this year.