Aaron Judge Likely Out vs Rays, Boone Updates Elbow

The New York Yankees won’t have Aaron Judge in the outfield for their upcoming road series against the Tampa Bay Rays. The team’s playing it safe with Judge’s right elbow issue, which just won’t quit.

Manager Aaron Boone talked about the situation during a recent radio spot. For now, Judge is sticking to designated hitter duties only.

He hasn’t played defense since late July, but let’s be honest—he’s still a huge offensive weapon for New York right when they need him most.

Aaron Judge’s Injury Status and Role Adjustment

Judge has been dealing with this elbow thing ever since he came back from a flexor strain. That injury knocked him out for 10 games earlier this month.

Since August 5, the Yankees have only let him hit as the DH. They’re hoping that’ll keep things from getting worse.

Impact on the Yankees’ Outfield Rotation

With Judge out in right field, the Yankees have had to improvise. Boone has rotated Cody Bellinger, Giancarlo Stanton, and José Caballero to patch the hole in the outfield.

Stanton, who usually just hits, has found himself in the outfield more often lately. He’s started four recent games in right and looks like he’ll keep doing it against Tampa Bay.

Judge’s Offensive Dominance Continues

Even though he’s not playing defense, Judge’s bat is still electric. Honestly, this might be one of the best seasons he’s ever had.

Right now, the Yankees captain leads all of Major League Baseball in a bunch of big stats:

• Batting Average: .333
• Home Runs: 39
• RBI: 91
• OPS: 1.134

A Timely Boost for the Yankees

The Yankees have leaned hard on Judge’s offense, especially with their second half turning shaky. They’ve gone just 25–32 since mid-June, back when they were cruising at 17 games over .500.

Even if he’s not in the field, Judge can change a game with one swing. That’s the kind of edge you want when you’re fighting for a playoff spot.

Looking Ahead: Boston Series Could Mark Outfield Return

Judge will keep sitting out on defense in Tampa, but Boone hinted he might get back in the outfield later this week. That timing matters, since the Yankees play the Boston Red Sox in a massive four-game series.

It’s a matchup that could really shake up the American League Wild Card race.

Playoff Implications for New York

The Yankees are 67–57 and holding onto a Wild Card spot, but the race is tight. The Rays and Red Sox are both right there, so there’s no room for a cold streak.

Keeping Judge’s bat in the lineup—even if he’s not in the field—gives them their best shot at scoring runs while still protecting his elbow. They’re hoping he’ll be healthy if October baseball comes calling.

Balancing Health and Performance

Boone and the coaching staff have a tough job: keep Judge healthy, but don’t lose ground in the playoff chase. It’s a gamble, but maybe these short-term lineup tweaks will pay off.

Chasing the First Title Since 2009

It’s wild to think it’s been 15 years since the Yankees last lifted the World Series trophy. Judge is playing at an MVP level right now, and this season actually feels like a real shot to end that drought.

But, of course, that only happens if he stays healthy when it matters. Every move the team makes in the next few weeks seems to have extra weight—on the standings, sure, but especially in the training room.

The Yankees are heading into a crucial stretch. One thing’s for sure: Aaron Judge’s bat isn’t coming out of the lineup anytime soon.

His presence might just be the difference between another frustrating near-miss and a real championship parade down the Canyon of Heroes.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Yankees’ Aaron Judge Not Expected to Play OF vs. Rays, Boone Updates Elbow Injury