UPDATE: The New York Yankees have confirmed that Aaron Judge will be activated for Tuesday’s game against the Texas Rangers, marking a crucial return for the team’s captain. Judge has been sidelined since July 25 due to a flexor strain in his right elbow but is set to rejoin the lineup just in time to help turn around the Yankees’ recent struggles.
After suffering their fourth consecutive loss on Monday night, a hard-fought 8-5 defeat in 10 innings, Yankees manager Aaron Boone announced Judge’s availability. “Judge tomorrow,” Boone stated, providing a much-needed boost for a team that has slipped to third place in the AL East.
Judge, a two-time AL MVP, will initially serve as the designated hitter, according to Boone. This strategic move comes after Judge participated in batting practice against Yankees minor league pitchers in Tampa, Florida, prior to traveling to Texas. His impressive .342 batting average remains the best in the majors, alongside 37 homers and 85 RBIs.
The Yankees face a roster shake-up as newly acquired outfielder Austin Slater heads to the injured list due to left hamstring tightness, creating an open spot for Judge’s return. Slater exited in the second inning of Monday’s game, adding to New York’s injury woes.
With only 49 games left in the regular season, the Yankees find themselves 5.5 games behind the division-leading Toronto Blue Jays. Their recent performance, which includes an 18-28 record since June 13, has raised concerns within the organization. Boone acknowledged the team’s struggles, stating, “We’ve got to play better, and we know that.”
As Judge prepares to re-enter the lineup, fans are eager to see if he can reignite the Yankees’ offense and help them regain their footing in the playoff race. His presence is expected to have an immediate impact, especially as the Yankees aim to recover from their recent slump.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds. Judge’s return could be the key to revitalizing the Yankees’ season.