From Mlb · · 2m
5 reasons the Yankees can win without Judge
Aaron Judge's calf injury threatens the Yankees' playoff run, but their deep roster has proven it can win without him.
In brief
Aaron Judge's calf injury threatens the Yankees' playoff run, but their deep roster has proven it can win without him. The Yankees have multiple offensive threats, elite starting pitching, and a strong bullpen that can carry them through the playoffs even if Judge remains unavailable. Originally reported by Mlb.
Judge sidelined with calf strain
Aaron Judge was placed on the injured list with a moderate right calf strain. The Yankees captain hopes to return for the playoffs, but his availability for the Wild Card Series against Boston on September 29 and beyond remains uncertain.
“Missing Judge, it hurts. We all know he's the best hitter in the game.”
Dominant starting pitching
The Yankees' rotation is their greatest strength. Since July 28, starters have allowed two or fewer earned runs in 40 of 51 starts, posting a 2.50 ERA. They've allowed one run or fewer in 65 games, a franchise record.
“We come to win every game, regardless of who is on the field.”
Multiple offensive threats
Ben Rice has shouldered much of the offensive load with 39 homers. Cody Bellinger remains impactful, Luis García Jr. shows improved bat speed, and Heliot Ramos has demonstrated power and will be relied upon against left-handed pitching.
Promising young talent
Rookies George Lombard Jr. and Spencer Jones impressed against Arizona, combining for 872 feet of home runs including blasts of 424 and 448 feet. Both have shown they can deliver in big moments despite early-season growing pains.
Roster getting healthier
Jazz Chisholm Jr. was activated from the injured list and was hitting .391 before his injury. Anthony Volpe has earned consideration for the playoff roster, and Trent Grisham could also be available.
Reinforced bullpen depth
The Yankees can add relief help by moving starting pitchers to the bullpen in October. Will Warren will transition to relief, while Clarke Schmidt and Ryan Weathers are also available to strengthen an already strong relief corps.
“That's the beauty of the postseason; guys fall into different roles and a lot of times can become heroic.”
Proven winning without Judge
The Yankees posted a 36-24 record since the All-Star break, most of which occurred without Judge. They've repeatedly shown they can win games with different key pieces unavailable throughout the season.
“We know we're capable of winning games. We've had to play without a lot of key pieces at different points.”
Here's the gist
The Yankees have multiple offensive threats, elite starting pitching, and a strong bullpen that can carry them through the playoffs even if Judge remains unavailable.
