Aaron Judge is back where he belongs — in right field — as the Yankees charge into their most important series of the season against division-rival Toronto. That’s right, the two-time MVP is out of the DH bubble and back patrolling the grass, glove in hand, for the first time since July 26. What kept him away? A nagging flexor strain in his forearm made throwing about as advisable as using a flamethrower to light birthday candles.
Judge spent a month as a full-time DH, which, let’s be honest, isn’t nothing, but Yankees fans were holding their breath every time a ball was hit to right field. Now, he’s eased back in — and I do mean eased. Manager Aaron Boone is playing it smart (or cautious, depending on your viewpoint). Judge won’t be out there every game. He’s sharing time in right with Giancarlo Stanton, who — if we’re being real — is the last person the Yankees want chasing fly balls in the Bronx humidity. Stanton’s in the DH slot currently, letting Judge take the reins defensively as they square off against Kevin Gausman and the high-flying Jays.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. shakes off double knee scare
But Judge isn’t the only player pushing through pain. Jazz Chisholm Jr., one of the game’s flashiest infielders, is also in the lineup. Yes, just days after taking brutal knocks to both knees (because why not double it up?), he’s back at second base and hitting fifth. Tests showed no ligament damage, just some gnarly contusions, so he’s suiting up for what could define New York’s postseason fate. He was clearly hobbled Thursday against Houston, but you’ve got to admire the grit — it’s do-or-die time, and the stars are stepping up.
Yankees, Jays, Sox in high-stakes AL East showdown
And make no mistake — this series matters. The AL East is a dogfight. Toronto holds a three-game lead, while the Yankees cling to a half-game advantage over the Red Sox in the Wild Card race. But here’s the kicker: all three teams — Jays, Yanks, Sox — have better records than the division-leading Astros. So, whoever wins the East, they’re likely locking up a top-two seed and a first-round bye.
Translation? Every pitch in this series could be a ticket to October dominance — or an early exit. The drama’s thick, the rosters are stacked, and the stakes? Oh, they’re sky-high.
