{
  "id": 6067733,
  "title": "Yankees fans are just fine with Aaron Judge skipping a rehab assignment",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/yankees-fans-are-just-fine-with-aaron-judge-skipping-a-rehab",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-07T00:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/yankees-fans-just-fine-aaron-000000888.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Bronx, New York - August 27 - Aaron Judge, the star of the New York Yankees, has been absent from action since May 31st due to a rib injury. Fans across MLB have been eagerly waiting for his return, with a particular focus on when he might be back in the lineup. Recently, there were two key updates: rumor suggested he might skip a rehab assignment and return directly to the Bronx; and on Friday night, James Smyth reported that Judge had taken live batting practice for the first time since his injury. Given these developments, SB Nation decided to survey the fanbase to gauge their opinion on Judge's decision to skip the rehab games. Despite not being unanimous, the consensus was overwhelmingly positive: Yankees fans desire their captain to return to the lineup as soon as possible. While the absence of Judge has undoubtedly impacted the team's offensive performance, the team is currently leading the Wild Card race by 8.5 games and is 4.0 games back in the division. This has led to discussions about whether the potential boost from Judge's return outweighs the risk of rushing his recovery. Regardless, the organization will carefully monitor his activity, ensuring he receives ample rest and opportunities for rest days before fully reintegrating into the team.",
  "summary": "Is it wise for the Captain to return in a somewhat hasty manner?",
  "key_points": [
    "Aaron Judge has been out since May 31st due to rib injury",
    "Yankees fans support Judge skipping rehab assignment",
    "Team leading Wild Card race by 8.5 games"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Yahoo Sports",
        "title": "Yankees facing predicament that could delay Aaron Judge’s return",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/06/yankees-facing-predicament-that-could-delay-aaron-judges-return",
        "published": "2026-09-06T19:00:04.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}