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Yankees star Aaron Judge left Wednesday’s game against the Minnesota Twins after experiencing tightness in his lower right leg, creating an immediate concern for New York as the postseason approaches. Judge was removed for a pinch hitter in the sixth inning and replaced by Heliot Ramos.
The New York right fielder had already been dealing with a difficult stretch since returning from a broken rib last week. His latest issue comes at a particularly important point in the schedule, with the Yankees attempting to close the gap in the American League East and prepare for October baseball.
Yankees Pull Aaron Judge After Leg Tightness
Judge started Wednesday’s game in Minnesota but struggled against Twins starter Zebby Matthews. He struck out in both of his at-bats before the Yankees replaced him with Ramos in the sixth inning.
His final notable defensive action came in the fifth inning, when he ran toward the gap to track down a double. Judge did not appear to show obvious discomfort or a noticeable lack of speed during the play, according to the Associated Press report carried by ESPN.
The Yankees have not announced a specific diagnosis beyond the reported tightness. There was also no immediate indication in the report of how long Judge might be unavailable. The club’s medical staff and manager will likely monitor him closely before determining whether he needs additional testing or time away from the lineup.
Aaron Judge’s Challenging Return From Injury
The timing is significant because Judge has not yet regained his usual offensive rhythm since returning from the broken rib. He entered Wednesday’s contest batting 4-for-26 with 13 strikeouts and only one extra-base hit across seven games.
That production is well below the standard established by the three-time American League MVP. Judge remains one of the most important players in the Yankees lineup, capable of changing a game with one swing and forcing opposing pitchers to alter their entire approach.
Despite the recent struggles, Judge delivered a major moment earlier in the series. He homered in Monday’s opener at Minnesota, helping New York clinch a postseason spot. The Yankees were able to secure October baseball, but their larger goals remain intact, including improving their position in the division and entering the playoffs at full strength.
Why Judge’s Health Matters to the Yankees
New York entered Wednesday trailing the Tampa Bay Rays by 3½ games in the AL East. That deficit leaves the Yankees with a strong incentive to keep their best players available while continuing to push for a division title.
Judge’s health is especially important because the lineup is built around his power, on-base ability and presence in the middle of the order. Even when he is not producing at his normal level, opposing teams must account for him every time he steps into the batter’s box.
- Judge is a three-time American League MVP.
- He recently returned from a broken rib.
- He has struck out 13 times in seven games since returning.
- The Yankees have already clinched a postseason berth.
- New York remains in pursuit of Tampa Bay in the AL East.
The Yankees will now have to balance two priorities: protecting Judge’s recovery and maintaining their position in a competitive playoff race. With the postseason approaching, the club may prefer caution rather than risk turning a bout of tightness into a more serious injury.
What Comes Next for Aaron Judge?
The next step will be determining whether Judge can return to the lineup without discomfort. The Yankees could provide more information after Wednesday’s game or before Thursday’s schedule, including whether he will receive additional rest or undergo further evaluation.
For now, the situation remains one to watch rather than a confirmed long-term absence. Judge’s recent return from a broken rib already required careful management, and the Yankees may take a conservative approach with their star outfielder.
New York has secured its place in the postseason, but the team’s championship hopes depend heavily on the availability of its core players. Judge’s lower-leg tightness adds another layer of uncertainty to an already demanding stretch run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Yankees remove Aaron Judge?
The Yankees removed Judge in the sixth inning because of tightness in his lower right leg. Heliot Ramos replaced him as a pinch hitter.
Did Aaron Judge suffer a confirmed serious injury?
No serious injury was confirmed in the available report. The Yankees identified the issue as lower right leg tightness, with no immediate timetable provided.
How was Judge performing after returning from his broken rib?
Judge was 4-for-26 with 13 strikeouts and one extra-base hit in seven games since returning from the broken rib.
Have the Yankees clinched a playoff spot?
Yes. The Yankees clinched a postseason berth during Monday’s series opener against the Twins.
What is at stake for New York?
The Yankees are trying to close a 3½-game gap behind Tampa Bay in the AL East while keeping Judge and the rest of their roster healthy for the postseason.
