Aaron Judge's injury looming large as Yankees brace for clearer diagnosis
Key Points:
- Yankees superstar Aaron Judge is out of the lineup for a second consecutive game due to a bone bruise near his right rib cage, which is affecting his swing, with his injury status still uncertain after specialist review.
- Judge last played Sunday and has undergone imaging and consultations with team physicians, but the Yankees have yet to determine if he will require a stint on the injured list or a longer absence.
- In Judge's absence, the Yankees adjusted their lineup by starting José Caballero in right field and relying on Ben Rice as the team's primary power hitter, with Boone expressing confidence in Rice's ability to maintain performance levels.
- Judge has struggled recently at the plate, hitting .207 over 22 games prior to Tuesday, with his slump possibly linked to the nagging injury that has gradually worsened.
- Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged Judge's toughness and durability but noted the team is better prepared to handle his absence this season, although the length of time Judge will miss remains unknown.