With fans wondering whether New York Yankees three-time MVP Aaron Judge will be playing in the AL Wild Card series next week as his calf injury looms over the franchise, the man himself isn’t so worried.
“That’s what the plan is,” Judge told ESPN. “Try to get my body ready so I’m ready to go.”
Judge intends to be ready for Game 1 of the Wild Card series, which begins at Yankee Stadium next Tuesday against a to-be-determined opponent from the American League.
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Judge was placed on the injured list this past Saturday after suffering a right calf strain, though he added more concern that he could be out awhile at the worst possible time given the postseason was right around the corner.
He specified that he has a soleus muscle strain, which is what he said is essential for running and hitting – the things the Yankees desperately need him to do if they wish to reach the World Series again.
Judge confirmed reports that he received a Platelet-Poor Plasma (PPP) injection on Monday in his calf, and he and the Yankees are now waiting for clearance to resume baseball activities involving his leg.
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However, while Judge is intending on playing, manager Aaron Boone had a different thought process on Tuesday.
“We’re planning on him not being a part of that,” he told reporters regarding the AL Wild Card series, though he hasn’t ruled him out officially. The Yankees still have time to figure out their roster.
But, if Judge isn’t on the Wild Card roster, he won’t be allowed to play until the Yankees make it to the ALDS, which only occurs if they win the best-of-three series.
Judge added that he’s had talks with those within the organization that make decisions, though he wasn’t going to divulge.
“I can’t control what people say,” he said. “So, you’ll have to talk to them about that.”
Judge’s injury came after he had just returned from a three-month stint on the injured list with a fractured rib . This ailment may not be as serious, but after getting an MRI this past Thursday to reveal the grade of the strain, it’s serious enough at a time when the Yankees would love for him to be 100%.
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Since his return to the team, however, Judge hasn’t struggled to get back to his usual slugging self. He went 4-of-23 with one homer and 13 strikeouts over 24 plate appearances. And they came right after he was deemed healthy enough to play instead of going to the minor leagues for a rehab assignment.
“We’ve got games to win,” Judge said. “I’m getting paid to play games for the New York Yankees, so I’ll get back as soon as I can.”
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There are multiple opponents the Yankees could play in the Wild Card series, but it is most likely to be a rematch from 2025 in the Bronx against the Boston Red Sox.
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