The New York Yankees will be missing their star player, Aaron Judge, for a while. Manager Aaron Boone announced that Judge has a flexor strain in his right elbow, but thankfully, there’s no tear in his UCL. He’ll go on the injured list for about ten days.
When Judge returns, he’ll start as a designated hitter and gradually work his way back to playing in the field. He skipped Saturday’s game against the Philadelphia Phillies due to what was described as an “elbow issue.” It seems Judge had trouble throwing from the outfield and had an MRI to check on the problem.
It’s not clear how Judge got hurt. He was seen in discomfort after a throw during a game against the Toronto Blue Jays. The day after, he didn’t play right field but managed to be the designated hitter. Although he missed his first game of the season on Saturday, he has struggled recently, going only 1 for 10 at the plate in his last couple of games, with that one hit being a home run.
Judge is currently a frontrunner in the AL MVP race, competing closely with Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh. In 103 games, Judge leads the league in batting average (.342), on-base percentage (.449), slugging percentage (.711), and OPS (1.160). Meanwhile, Raleigh tops the majors with 39 home runs and is just one RBI behind Judge with 84.
With the Yankees currently six games behind the Blue Jays in the AL East, this injury comes at a tough time. General Manager Brian Cashman will need to think carefully about how to respond, especially with the trade deadline approaching on July 31. The Yankees have lost five out of their last eight games since the All-Star break.
For fans and players alike, Judge’s absence will be felt. His impressive stats and leadership on the field have been crucial to the Yankees’ performance this season. The team’s upcoming series against the Tampa Bay Rays will be particularly important as they strive to regain momentum.
Injuries like Judge’s underline the unpredictable nature of baseball. As teams navigate their rosters and make strategic decisions, fans will be watching closely to see how the Yankees adapt.
Source link
Aaron Boone, New York Yankees, Aaron Judge, Philadelphia Phillies, Toronto Blue Jays, Cal Raleigh, New York, Seattle Mariners, Miami Marlins, Texas Rangers, Tampa Bay Rays