Although the New York Yankees annihilated the Red Sox during the wild-card round, they need outfielder Aaron Judge back in the lineup. His return could come sooner than expected.
Bob Klapisch from NJ.com reported that Judge is undergoing an experimental procedure in an attempt to return to the diamond for the ALDS. He has received PPP (platelet-poor plasma) injections from Yankees physician Dr. Chris Ahmad in an attempt to accelerate the healing process.
PPP injections are related to the more prevalent PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections. While both are made by putting the patient’s blood in a centrifuge, PPP injections have shown promise for helping to heal muscles and tendons.
As Judge is attempting to return from a right calf strain, such a treatment could help. He has already progressed to taking batting practice, though he has yet to do any base running or outfield drills. If Judge does come back, he will likely be limited to the designated hitter role.
New York Yankees may not be able to count on Aaron Judge even if he returns
The question, if Judge does return, is how much of an impact he will make. He struggled after missing three months due to a stress fracture in the first rib on his right side, hitting four hits, including a home run, in his 24 plate appearances while striking out 13 times. Klapisch noted that Judge was unable to get the ball out of the infield during that batting practice session.
Judge had said that he felt ready to go for the wild-card round, though his batting practice indicated otherwise. He still needs to get his timing back before he can make an impact. However, if this treatment is successful, Judge could still be a factor in the Yankees’ postseason run.