Aaron Judge was sidelined for 99 days with a rib fracture. See the symbolism there if you want. But the tactile is better, and Tuesday, Aaron Boone was physically able to ink No. 99 into the starting lineup for the first time since May 31. 

The Yankees bailed water without Judge, going 45-39. But, in a way, the value of a three-time MVP was reasserted by him not playing — and how badly the Yankees missed him. Which, in part, is why he was with the Yankees and not, say, at Double-A Somerset. Boone said the plan is for Judge not to play full games initially regardless of score or how hot Judge might be as they try to build him up to being a full-time player again in real time. 

Boone also said if you don’t like that, well: “He could be on a rehab assignment, getting no innings and no at-bats here.” 

The implication is clear. A little Aaron Judge is better than none.