Yankees Sign Hanner to MLB Deal, Move Judge to 60-Day IL

The New York Yankees signed right-hander Bradley Hanner to a major league contract and optioned him to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Hanner was already pitching at the affiliate level, so the new deal simply secures his spot on the organization's 40-man roster. To create the necessary roster space, the team moved Aaron Judge to the 60-day injured list.

Judge's situation. The move of Judge to the 60-day IL signals that the Yankees expect his injury to require an extended absence. The 60-day injured list creates a longer window for recovery compared to the standard 15-day placement, and it opens additional roster flexibility for New York to make moves. Judge's status remains one of the most significant storylines for the franchise as the season progresses.

Hanner's role. The 27-year-old right-hander will remain in Triple-A for now, available to pitch at that level while holding a protected spot on the 40-man roster. This move ensures the Yankees maintain his rights and can call him up to the majors if injuries or performance demands require reinforcement to their pitching staff. It is a procedural move that keeps organizational depth intact.

Roster maneuvering. The transaction reflects the Yankees' ongoing effort to balance immediate roster needs with long-term depth planning. With Judge sidelined, the lineup loses significant offensive pop, placing pressure on other hitters to elevate production. The pitching staff may see Hanner called up in the coming weeks depending on how the arm talent performs at Triple-A and what happens with the major league rotation.

Source: original report ↗