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Luis García Jr. offered a powerful glimpse into Aaron Judge’s influence on the New York Yankees, even as the team’s captain remains unavailable for the American League Wild Card Series. García said Judge’s constant presence around the clubhouse and dugout has made it feel as though the injured superstar is still part of the active roster.
Judge was noticeably absent when the Yankees lined up for introductions before Tuesday’s Game 1 against the Boston Red Sox. Manager Aaron Boone later explained that Judge was receiving treatment after completing his on-field workout. The Yankees captain had participated in live batting practice the previous day and ran in right field before the game.
Luis García Jr. Highlights Judge’s Powerful Clubhouse Impact
Although Judge is not eligible to play in the Wild Card round, García said the captain has remained deeply involved with the team. He has attended meetings, spent time around the batting cage and continued supporting teammates from the dugout.
“To see how much he’s around us in those meetings, around the cage, it doesn’t even feel like he’s not on the roster,” García said Wednesday. “It’s very impressive to see up close. But at the same time, it’s the main reason why he’s the captain.”
The comments underline the leadership role Judge continues to hold during a difficult postseason absence. His value to New York extends beyond home runs and defense; according to García, Judge’s example and communication remain important as the Yankees attempt to advance.
Critical Injury Keeps Yankees Captain Off Wild Card Roster
Judge is recovering from a moderate strain in his right calf suffered on Sept. 16 against the Minnesota Twins. Despite efforts to accelerate his recovery, the Yankees did not include him on their 26-man roster for the Wild Card Series.
The decision followed a cautious rehabilitation process. Judge took part in live batting practice Monday and ran on the field Tuesday, marking his first on-field running session since the injury. He also told reporters, “I’ve got work to do,” after completing the workout.
Boone said Judge traveled Wednesday to the home of the Double-A Somerset Patriots for live at-bats against several pitchers. Luis Gil and Eli Morgan were among the pitchers mentioned by the manager. Judge was expected to return to New York for Game 2.
- Judge sustained the right calf strain on Sept. 16.
- He was left off the Yankees’ Wild Card roster.
- He completed live batting practice and on-field running before Game 1.
- He traveled to Somerset for additional live at-bats.
- The Yankees have not ruled out a possible Division Series return.
Yankees Face Major Decision Ahead of Possible Division Series
New York has not ruled out adding Judge if the Yankees reach the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Boone acknowledged that the artificial turf at Tropicana Field could influence the organization’s decision.
The Yankees are expected to evaluate Judge’s progress over the next several days. The club’s trainers and strength staff have already required him to clear multiple checkpoints before allowing him to run and participate in live batting practice.
“We feel like in a couple of weeks since the injury, he’s made real strides and significant improvements,” Boone said. “Hopefully, we’re in a position to make another decision in a couple of days.”
For now, García and the rest of the Yankees must continue without their captain on the official postseason roster. That does not mean Judge has been separated from the group. His involvement remains visible, and his teammates continue to draw confidence from his presence.
García’s assessment also reflects the broader importance of Judge’s role in New York. Even while sidelined, the captain remains engaged in preparation and team discussions. His continued participation could prove valuable if the Yankees advance and he is cleared for a potential return.
What Luis García Jr.’s Comments Mean for New York
The Yankees are balancing postseason urgency with the need to protect Judge’s recovery. A premature return could worsen the calf problem, while a successful rehabilitation could give New York a significant boost in the Division Series.
Until that decision arrives, García’s message is clear: Judge’s leadership has not disappeared. Whether he is taking live at-bats, working with teammates or offering support from the dugout, the captain remains a central figure in the Yankees’ playoff push.
Why was Luis García Jr. discussing Aaron Judge?
Luis García Jr. was asked about Judge’s continued presence around the Yankees’ meetings, batting cage and dugout despite the captain being left off the Wild Card roster.
Why was Aaron Judge unavailable for the Wild Card Series?
Judge was recovering from a moderate strain in his right calf that he suffered on Sept. 16 against the Minnesota Twins.
Did Judge participate in baseball activities before Game 1?
Yes. Judge took part in live batting practice Monday, ran in right field Tuesday and later traveled to Somerset for additional live at-bats.
Could Judge return for the American League Division Series?
The Yankees have not ruled out including Judge on a potential Division Series roster. His recovery progress and the playing surface at Tropicana Field could factor into the decision.
