The long-awaited return of Aaron Judge to the Yankees lineup did not have the immediate impact fans were hoping for. The American League MVP returned as a designated hitter, but went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts in his first game back from the injured list. Meanwhile, the New Yorkers have now lost five straight and continue to lose ground in their postseason fight.
Far from pointing fingers, Judge assumed his role as leader and spoke frankly after the game: “Physically, I feel great. The results weren’t there, but I’ve got to move on. We’re going to get them here,” he said. The loss to Texas left the team six games out of the American League East lead.
Aaron Judge’s words on the Yankees’ end-of-season version
Aaron Judge acknowledged that the team is not at its best, but he is confident that the talent and internal unity will make the difference: “We have a lot of work to do. There are a lot of mistakes we need to clean up, both mental and physical. But the guys here have what it takes to turn that around.“
He also stressed that responsibility starts with the individual: “It starts with everyone looking in the mirror, saying: ‘I have to get better’. That’s the foundation for changing things.” He was emphatic about his role as captain in the midst of the storm: “Winning or losing doesn’t change how I lead. I talk to my teammates the same when we win 15 games in a row or when we lose five. I can’t change.”
What is the real problem with the Yankees? Judge backs his teammates
The Yankees’ crisis goes beyond just one area and while Judge’s return was seen as the push needed to jumpstart the offense, the team is still not producing consistently. However, the captain defended key figures such as Devin Williams: “He’s been really good for the last month and a half. Now he’s in a tough stretch, but he’s given us a lot. It’s time to support him”.
The Bronx leader also stressed that it is not just about baseball: “This sport hits you, but it also gives you the opportunity to get up. Sometimes, a single hit changes everything. That’s the beauty and cruelty of this game.”
The Yankees have not won since July 31 and their offense has been one of the most inconsistent in the majors with a collective batting average of .231 in the last 10 games. Their bullpen has also failed at important moments. The time for change has come in New York and Judge is confident they can turn things around as a team.
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