The New York Yankees overcame a strong Atlanta Braves team 9-6 on Tuesday evening in the first game of a two-game series. After taking an 8-0 lead entering the sixth inning, starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery gave up a three-run home run to draw the Braves within five. Luckily, the Yankees bullpen was able to stifle a comeback attempt by Atlanta, with Zack Britton securing the save.
However, after a fifth-inning homer by Aaron Judge, a slight wince rounding second base confused the masses. Manager Aaron Boone immediately pulled Judge from the game but did not indicate any concern over an injury.
The New York Yankees are finally out of the Trop:
After enjoying an off day on Monday, the Yankees travel back to the Bronx for a home series, finally. They had previously lost a four-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays on the turf at Tropicana Field. Playing on turf is oftentimes tough on your joints and knees, due to the lack of cushion from artificial grass.
Following the contest, Boone stated he is “just trying to be smart with everyone,†regarding the decision to pull Judge from the game.
With the Yankees leading by a significant margin, taking him out could be justified by the lead. Judge was seen hanging out in the dugout during the bottom half of the sixth inning but then went to the clubhouse for the remainder of the game.
It is possible that Judge could be working through a slight injury, but it doesn’t seem that to be anything serious. Judge missed a few days of work with a stiff neck a few weeks ago, but his stellar performance at the plate, hitting .290 with a .758 slugging percentage, indicates that he is at the top of his game. Hopefully, nothing serious will come of this peculiar situation, and he will be back in the starting lineup on Wednesday.