Yankees News: Aaron Judge returns with ‘gaping’ difference, Estevan Florial visa issues

New York Yankees, Aaron Judge
USA Today

The New York Yankees have reported to spring training, and while things seem to be going smoothly thus far, one major difference has bubbled to the surface. Slugger Aaron Judge reported to camp with a ‘gaping’ difference compared to 2020, he got his teeth fixed!

One of the Judge’s primary characteristics is the gap between his front two teeth, which has now dissipated. With a brand new smile and a changed strength and conditioning program, Judge is expected to make a significant impact on the 2021 season.

Last year, he played in just 28 of 60 games, logging a .257 average with nine homers and 22 RBIs. New strength and conditioning coordinator Eric Cressey brings a different approach toward preparation and staying in shape.

With Judge in line to begin negotiating for a monster deal next season, remaining healthy is a priority. He’s arbitration-eligible in 2022 will become a free agent in 2023. He’s currently on a one-year, $10.175 million deal for the upcoming season, but expect that number to take an astronomical jump if he signs a long-term extension with the Yankees.

One youth player for the Yankees is still stuck in the Dominican Republic:

Estevan Florial is currently dealing with visa issues, barring him from entering the United States and joining his team in Florida. Apparently, a number of players are also dealing with this issue, but eventually, it will be solved.

According to CBS, the issue revolving around Florial is also having an impact on other players:

Florial has yet to arrive at camp due to visa issues, Brendan Kuty of The Newark Star-Ledger reports.

A large number of players around the league have been held up for similar reasons while trying to get back into the country. If Florial is able to arrive soon, he’ll still have plenty of time to get up to speed by Opening Day, though he’s unlikely to spend that day on the big-league roster regardless of when he shows up.