The New York Yankees’ season is officially over, and now it’s time for their superstar to evaluate his potentially serious injury.
Aaron Judge suffered an elbow injury in late-July, and it resulted in him missing 10 days after an IL stint. Upon his return, Judge played exclusively as a DH for nearly an entire month before returning to the outfield in early-September.
Despite returning to the outfield, it was clear that Judge’s arm strength was not all the way there. Normally known for having one of the strongest arms in Major League Baseball, Judge would opt for shorter throws to the cut-off man upon his return, sparking concern amongst many.
His injury didn’t affect his hitting ability, as he still slashed .331/.457/.688 with 53 home runs and 114 RBIs. In the playoffs, Judge slashed .500/.581/.692 with one home run and seven RBIs.
Judge asked about offseason rehab
Now with the offseason ahead, Judge was asked by MLB.com’s Bryan Hoch about what’s next to come for his elbow, and if surgery is a potential option.
We’ll definitely do some work on it. We’ll do some work on it and get it right,” Judge said.
When asked if “work” means surgery, Judge replied “I’m not a doctor, I don’t know.”
For now, the Yankees and their fans will hold their breath as they await any offseason diagnoses on their captain. The worst-case scenario was avoided over the summer, so they’ll hope to have similar luck this time around.