The New York Yankees are charging into a critical stretch of their season with strong momentum. They’re riding a three-game winning streak as they open a series against the Tampa Bay Rays.
Manager Aaron Boone delivered some important updates ahead of the matchup, especially about Aaron Judge’s health and playing status. With the Yankees locked in a tight division race with the Boston Red Sox, every lineup decision and injury report could shape their postseason destiny.
Aaron Judge’s Injury Status and Role for the Rest of the Season
Right now, one of the biggest storylines around the Yankees centers on Aaron Judge and his ongoing elbow issue. He recently returned from the injured list but has mostly been serving as a designated hitter instead of playing the outfield.
Why Judge Won’t Return to Full Outfield Duties
Boone didn’t mince words: don’t expect Judge to resume a full-time defensive role this season. His elbow problem limits his throwing, so the Yankees are playing it safe. They’d rather keep his bat in the lineup than risk another setback with his arm.
In the field, Boone plans to use Giancarlo Stanton for more outfield work. Stanton, who’s spent a lot of time as a DH himself, will now take on more defensive innings to help protect Judge’s health.
Judge’s Offensive Production Remains Elite
Even with less time in the field, Judge keeps producing at an MVP level. His numbers this season are wild:
- Batting average: .333
- Home runs: 39
- RBIs: 91
- Slugging percentage: .687
- OPS: 1.137
These stats put Judge among the league’s most dangerous hitters. It’s no wonder the Yankees want to keep him in the lineup, even if he’s only hitting and not fielding.
Momentum Heading into the Rays and Red Sox Series
The Yankees’ three-game winning streak gives them a timely boost as they face the Rays. Tampa Bay always seems to give New York trouble, so this series matters a lot.
AL East Showdown vs. Boston
After the Rays, the Yankees head straight into a four-game showdown with the Boston Red Sox. Both teams are tied atop the AL East, and this series could swing the division race or set the tone for the rest of the season.
Playing Boston in September always feels intense, but this year it’s on another level. Every game could shift playoff positioning or decide who takes the AL East crown. Keeping Judge healthy and in the lineup isn’t just important—it’s absolutely essential right now.
The Final Word
The Yankees’ path to the postseason really comes down to health and execution. Aaron Boone wants to protect Aaron Judge’s elbow, but he’s also counting on Judge’s offense to push the team forward.
Boone’s hoping this careful, maybe a bit risky, strategy means Judge stays on the field when the games matter most. With Judge swinging a hot bat and a big divisional matchup coming up, the pressure’s on.
Fans should get ready for some wild moments over the next few weeks. If Judge keeps hitting and the pitching doesn’t fall apart, New York might just have a shot at chasing championship number 28.
Here is the source article for this story: Yankees’ Aaron Boone Announces Aaron Judge News Before Rays Game
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