The Yankees are going through one of the most critical moments of the season, moving away from first place in the American League East division, the Blue Jays, and dangerously close to the Red Sox in third place, just one game away.
In addition to the lack of collective production, the medical situation of their captain, Aaron Judge, has set off alarm bells in the Bronx.
Aaron Boone publicly acknowledged that the player is suffering from a right elbow flexor strain, a condition that affects his performance and limits his ability to play normally, which is why they have opted to give him rest, hoping that the discomfort will subside and Judge can continue without setbacks the season ahead of the playoffs.
Aaron Boone laments Aaron Judge’s injury
Judge, who is struggling to stay active in the American League MVP race, had expressed his desire to continue contributing as a designated hitter, however, the medical evaluation and long-term risks forced the coaching staff to place him on the 10-day injured list.
Boone acknowledges the impact of Judge’s injury on offensive performance
In recent statements, Aaron Boone explained the complexity of the situation:
“If he was just a designated hitter now, he probably wouldn’t compromise his UCL and could pitch,”Boone said
However, he also admitted that the injury is affecting his grip, which directly influences the quality of his at-bats:
There’s a grip component and it’s probably affecting him offensively too
Boone went on to address how the injury might affect his mechanics:
Does this lead to diminished performance? To a bad habit? It’s part of the equation.
The Yankees suffer without Aaron Judge on the field
With Giancarlo Stanton also physically limited, the decision to give Judge time to heal is intended to minimize the risk of a major injury and protect the organization’s main offensive asset.
With Judge out, the Yankees have already begun to reorganize their lineup. In Sunday’s game, Boone introduced a new outfield trio: Cody Bellinger moved to right field, Trent Grisham was in center and Jasson Dominguez in left. In addition, newcomer Amed Rosario was added to the roster.
This reshuffle represents the temporary start of a new era without the captain, hoping to remain competitive in a division where the Yankees are in second place with a record of 56-48, 6.5 games behind leaders Toronto Blue Jays.
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