BREAKING: The New York Yankees are set to activate Aaron Judge for their crucial game against the Texas Rangers on Tuesday, just confirmed by manager Aaron Boone. Judge’s return comes after a stint on the 10-day injured list due to a flexor strain in his right elbow, and the Yankees desperately need his power after suffering their fourth consecutive loss, falling 8-5 in extra innings on Monday night.
This update is critical as the Yankees look to reverse their recent slide; they now sit 5.5 games behind the division-leading Toronto Blue Jays in the AL East. After being swept in a three-game series against Miami, the Yankees must capitalize on Judge’s presence to stay competitive for a wild-card spot.
Boone stated, “Judge tomorrow,” affirming that the two-time AL MVP will be available for the middle game of this pivotal series. While specific roles were not fully disclosed, Boone indicated that Judge will start as the designated hitter, adding, “He could also play catch while in Texas,” which may hint at a return to the field in the near future.
Judge has not seen action since July 25 due to his elbow issues, which were evaluated via MRI with no acute damage found. He received a platelet-rich plasma injection on July 27 and was placed on the injured list retroactively. Remarkably, Judge still leads the majors with a .342 batting average and ranks fourth with 37 home runs and fifth with 85 RBIs.
In addition to Judge’s return, the Yankees will have an open roster spot as newly acquired outfielder Austin Slater is headed to the injured list following an exit in the second inning against the Rangers due to left hamstring tightness. This leaves the Yankees needing to fill significant gaps in their lineup as they pursue a playoff berth.
Giancarlo Stanton, who has been the starting designated hitter for the Yankees all season, hit his tenth home run in the opener against Texas. However, Boone clarified that Stanton won’t play in the outfield during the series if Judge serves as DH.
As the Yankees prepare for this crucial matchup, the pressure is mounting. Boone admitted the team’s struggles weigh heavily on them, stating, “Nobody cares how stressful it is… We’ve got to play better, and we’ve got to win.” With just 49 games left in the regular season, every moment counts.
All eyes will be on Judge as he takes the field on Tuesday, and fans are hopeful that his return will spark a much-needed turnaround for the team. Tune in for the game and witness whether the Yankees can reclaim their place in the playoff race.
