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Aaron Judge returned to the field for the second time in just three days, facing the Toronto Blue Jays amidst ongoing concerns regarding the flexor strain in his right elbow. His performance revealed the impact of the injury on his typically strong arm.
While the Blue Jays exploited this weakness during the game, Judge’s determination was evident when he made a crucial diving catch, sealing a 4-3 victory and preventing a run from scoring.
Assessing Judge’s Arm Strength
Despite his efforts, it was clear that Judge’s arm was affected by the injury.
In the second inning, he attempted to throw out a runner at second base after Ernie Clement doubled into the corner. However, the throw was clocked at just 70 mph, significantly lower than his usual average of 90 mph earlier in the season.
This decline raises questions about how teams will continue to approach Judge and test his arm throughout the remainder of the season.
Later in the same inning, with runners on second and third, Judge opted to relay the ball to Jazz Chisholm Jr.
instead of attempting a throw home, allowing Clement to score without a play at the plate. This decision underscores the cautious approach that both Judge and the coaching staff are adopting as he navigates his recovery.
In the following inning, Judge faced another challenge when George Springer led off with a double.
His subsequent throw was even slower, clocked at just 62 mph. Manager Aaron Boone commented on Judge’s performance, indicating that he believed the throws were satisfactory, but acknowledged the necessity for ongoing discussions with Judge and Giancarlo Stanton regarding their comfort levels in the outfield.
Team Dynamics and Injury Management
As the game progressed, the possibility of substituting Judge for a more agile player arose, particularly after he walked in the eighth inning. A strategic move could have involved bringing in the speedy José Caballero to steal a base. However, Boone decided against making the change, showing confidence in Judge’s ability to contribute while managing his injury.
Meanwhile, Paul Goldschmidt was absent from the lineup for the second consecutive game due to a bone bruise in his right knee. Boone had initially indicated that Goldschmidt would only be used in emergency situations, but later assessments deemed the injury manageable, allowing him to enter the game as a defensive replacement.
Looking Ahead for Judge and the Yankees
As the Yankees navigate the complexities of player injuries, the team has shown resilience. With Judge and Chisholm Jr. both making notable base steals, the Yankees have achieved a total of 52 stolen bases over their last 41 games, the highest in the majors during that span. This aggressive base-running strategy, coupled with their overall performance, signifies a pivotal moment for the team.
As the season progresses, monitoring Judge’s recovery and its impact on his contributions on the field will be essential. His ability to perform at a high level while managing his injury will be crucial for the Yankees’ success as they aim for playoff contention.
