UPDATE: The New York Yankees seized a critical 4-3 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on July 30, 2023, thanks to a stunning three-run homer from Ben Rice, set up by Aaron Judge’s keen insights into Max Scherzer’s pitching. This thrilling win was pivotal as the Yankees closed the gap in the AL East standings, now just two games behind Toronto.
In a dramatic first inning, Judge, positioned at second base, signaled Rice about Scherzer’s pitch tipping, allowing him to connect with a fastball on the tenth pitch of his at-bat, driving it **380 feet into the right-center seats** for a commanding 3-0 lead. Judge’s actions came after receiving a signal from teammate Cody Bellinger, who was stationed at first base.
“They’re good at it,” said Blue Jays manager John Schneider, acknowledging the Yankees’ strategic advantage. Scherzer, who threw his changeup **17 times** over **4 1/3 innings**, admitted,
“I thought I had addressed it… but clearly I hadn’t.”
The Yankees capitalized on this oversight, with Rice’s homer being a critical blow in the tightly contested match.
This game marked Judge’s return to right field after a lengthy injury hiatus, and he made headlines not only for his offensive contribution but also for his defensive prowess. He executed a remarkable diving catch on a **106.4 mph** line drive from George Springer, stranding a runner at second base in the fourth inning. Judge’s return was highly anticipated after he suffered a flexor tendon injury in July.
The Yankees’ momentum continues as they have now won **11 of their last 14 games**, showcasing their determination to reclaim the top spot in the AL East. The team is clearly benefiting from Judge’s leadership and skill, as he not only contributes offensively but also elevates the team’s overall performance on the field.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if the Yankees can maintain this momentum and capitalize on their current form. With Judge back in the lineup and the team’s recent success, the Yankees are poised for a strong finish as they aim to challenge the Blue Jays for the division lead.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the playoff race heats up.