Aaron Judge wants to play in the wild-card round - will the Yankees include him on the roster?
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Aaron Judge has not played since September 16 due to a right calf strain, following a three-month absence caused by a rib stress fracture, leaving his availability for the Yankees' wild-card playoff against the Red Sox uncertain.
- During a recent workout, Judge showed some batting ability but did not run bases, and his participation in the postseason remains unclear until the Yankees release their full roster.
- Manager Aaron Boone and Judge both expressed cautious optimism about his progress, but it seems unlikely Judge will play in the outfield, with a designated hitter or pinch-hitting role being more probable if he is included.
- The Yankees face roster challenges with multiple first base/DH options, including the potential return of Giancarlo Stanton, making Judge's roster spot less certain if he is not at full strength.
- Despite Judge's determination to play, the final decision rests with the Yankees' management and medical staff, balancing his eagerness against health risks and team strategy.
