Yankees' Aaron Judge feels he's in the clear after elbow recovery with 'toughest' times behind him

The Yankees right fielder is ready to go after dealing with a flexor strain in his right elbow last season.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 9:23pm

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Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees' right fielder, is feeling confident about his recovery from a flexor strain in his right elbow that limited his throwing ability late last season. Judge said the 'toughest thing' was not being able to make plays in the field, but his arm is now feeling great and he's ready to go for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

Judge's elbow injury was a concern for the Yankees last season, as he was unable to play the field at full strength. His recovery is crucial for the team's outfield defense and offensive production, as Judge is a key part of the Yankees' lineup.

The details

Judge said he began his throwing program earlier than usual this offseason on the advice of the Yankees' training staff. He felt he was in the clear once he was able to 'really let it go' during long tossing. The 'training staff did a great job' in pushing Judge to throw all offseason to help him recover.

  • In September, Judge returned to the field after strictly DHing for the first month off the injured list.
  • About nine months removed from breaking his ankle and suffering ligament damage, Oswaldo Cabrera is feeling good and took live batting practice on Monday.
  • Anthony Volpe was scheduled to begin his hitting progression on Monday, the latest milestone in his rehab from October surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

The players

Aaron Judge

The New York Yankees' right fielder who is recovering from a flexor strain in his right elbow.

Oswaldo Cabrera

A utility player for the Yankees who is recovering from a broken ankle and ligament damage suffered about nine months ago.

Anthony Volpe

The Yankees' shortstop prospect who is rehabbing from October surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

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What they’re saying

“That was the toughest thing for me last year, was the pitcher's working his butt off and the guys around me are working their butt off and then the ball's hit to me and I had no shot [to throw a runner out].”

— Aaron Judge

“It's feeling great. Haven't had any issues so far. I think we're ready to go. I'm throwing out there confident. I've thrown to bases a couple times already, so no worries. Just excited to get back out there and have the confidence.”

— Aaron Judge

“The training staff did a great job, they were really the ones pushing for, 'Let's have you throw all offseason.'”

— Aaron Judge

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.