Yankees News: Aaron Judge injury a mystery, Friday’s availability in question

The Yankees had a great win over the Orioles on Tuesday night. A tremendous start from Gerrit Cole and a great performance from Judge led the Yankees to a 7-2 victory. Judge had his best game of the year and looked to be in mid-season form. 

It wasn’t until the lineup came out for the series finale on Wednesday that things started to look down. Aaron Judge was missing. With an off day scheduled for New York on Thursday, the decision to rest Judge was questionable. Experts and fans were going berserk trying to come up with an answer for Judge’s absence. 

Aaron Boone then met with the media before the game and was asked about the situation. He stated that Judge was absent from the lineup because of “soreness” in his left side. After a game in which Judge went 3-5 with two singles and a three-run homer, it seemed weird that he was experiencing soreness. Boone then stated that this was more “wear and tear” soreness than anything else. Players don’t usually experience any wear and tear five games into the season. Especially a player in as great of shape as Judge. Then he tried to reassure everyone by saying Judge would be available off the bench.

The Yankees ended up losing a heartbreaker in eleven innings by a score of 4-3. It was a thrilling game throughout, with many lead changes late. Judge, however, never made an appearance. 

So, why didn’t Judge play?

After the game, Boone was bombarded with questions regarding Judge’s health. He was asked why Judge wasn’t used late in the game. He responded by saying that he “was staying away” from Judge. Then he stated that it is “unclear” whether Judge will be in the Yankees lineup against the Rays on Friday.

With a travel day for the Yankees tomorrow, Judge will get two days of rest. That should clear up any wear and tear soreness that he is experiencing. Which is why it’s weird that his status would be in question. Boone said earlier that New York has no tests set up for Judge and that he will be monitored closely. Only time will tell whether this is really “wear and tear” or something more serious than expected.