Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees captain, silenced his critics and showed why he is one of the most feared hitters in the league as he powered his team to an epic comeback that forced a Game 4 in the American League Division Series.
Despite being a two-time MVP, Judge has faced criticism for his postseason performances. However, in Game 3 against the Blue Jays, with the Yankees trailing 6-3 in the bottom of the fourth inning, Judge exploded with a three-run homer that tied the game. The blast, off a 100 mph fastball from Louis Varland, was the start of an offensive outburst that revived the Yankees’ season.
Aaron Judge’s comeback
As is customary not only in baseball, but in all sports, players can go from love to hate and vice versa in a matter of minutes by fans, so Judge endured criticism and was then applauded on social networks and received great recognition.
The home run not only tied the game, but also unleashed a series of runs for the Bronx Bombers, who completed a remarkable comeback to go 9-6, taking the lead for the first time in the game. The feat was especially significant for Judge, as it was his sixth home run in games where his team faces elimination, tying the record of Red Sox legend David Ortiz and proving that he is more relevant than ever.
Aaron Judge’s reflection
At the end of the game, where Judge went 3-4 with four RBIs, the Yankees captain reflected on the crucial moment, emphasizing the mentality that must prevail under pressure.
“He completely overwhelmed me on the previous pitch,” Judge said of the pitch that preceded the home run. “He has all the advantage. He’s probably in attack mode. You have to attack that head on.”
Judge’s three-run homer not only banished the “ghosts” of his previous postseason performances, but also kept his team’s hopes alive. The victory forced a fourth game and fans made clear their feelings on social media, with comments that summed up the message to their rivals: “They woke up the beast.”
The Blue Jays will now have to face a red-hot Judge and a revitalized offense, which promises a tense battle against a Toronto bullpen that will likely have to be stretched in the crucial Game 4.
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