Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees captain, is the glue that holds the pack together. He is not only one of the most admired sluggers in the league but also the face of the 27-time World Series-winning franchise. Last year, the pillar’s absence shook the team’s foundation as they finished outside the postseason.
However, this year, Aaron Judge is all geared to bounce back with the toe injury behind his back. Amidst the anticipation of a new season, Judge was seen exiting a spring game against the Atlanta Braves early, which raised a lot of eyebrows and unnecessary unrest. Let’s explore what actually went down in Tampa.
Aaron Judge Pulled Up After Mere 2 At-Bats Vs Braves
A star-studded New York Yankees lineup took on the Atlanta Braves in a spring training matchup this weekend. A lineup similar to the projected opening day lineup performed together for the first time this spring session. However, Aaron Judge, the captain’s short stay on the plate, caused havoc amongst the fanbase. After two strikeouts in two at-bats, Judge was replaced by Trent Grisham for the rest of the day. Naturally, concerns surrounding his toe injury build-up gained momentum. Notably, the captain earlier told the media that his toe would need maintenance for the rest of his career. However, as soon as speculations rocked the internet, Aaron Boone issued a clarification.
New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone clarified that fielding Aaron Judge for two at-bats was always the plan for the matchup. His fitness and health status have nothing to do with it. Even Judge addressed the issue and said he was comfortable with Boone’s plan. With opening day inching closer, the team intends to preserve its golden bullets for the ultimate challenge. Having said that, in Judge’s absence, Juan Soto entertained the crowd with a 447-foot home run. Jose Trevino joined the party on debut with a solo shot. Giancarlo Stanton further drove a double to boast his improved athleticism. Overall, it was a good day on the field for the New York Yankees, who basically rehearsed for the opening day with a star-studded lineup. The New Yankees are slated to meet arch-rivals Houston Astros for the opening day series from March 29.
Judge Endorses Juan Soto After Staggering Form In Spring
While Aaron Judge was allowed a limited time on the plate, he had the best seat in the ballpark to witness Juan Soto’s brilliance. Soto slammed a colossal 447-foot home run over the right-center field wall to register his fourth long shot of the season. His bomb landed in the parking lot of George Steinbrenner field and added three runs to the team’s lead.
Meanwhile, an ecstatic Aaron Judge admired Juan Soto and said that the 447-foot home run was one of the farthest he had seen in this spring training. Moreover, for Soto, as a left-hander, to smash a hit so powerful all the way to right-center field was a commendable and special effort in captain Aaron Judge’s eyes.
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