Addison Barger error: How Blue Jays third baseman's mistake led to Aaron Judge's game-tying home run in ALDS

Teddy Ricketson

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Addison Barger error: How Blue Jays third baseman's mistake led to Aaron Judge's game-tying home run in ALDS image

The New York Yankees were hosted the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 3 of the 2025 American League Division Series, trailing two games to none, and facing elimination in the best-of-five series. Toronto had taken a 6-1 lead early, causing many fans and analysts to wonder if New York's season was already over.

Then, in the fourth inning, the Yankees got the spark they needed. It began with a costly error by the Blue Jays, from a player who was recently subbed into the game after pinch-hitting. 

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Here is more on the error that led to Aaron Judge hitting a game-tying, three-run home run in Game 3 of the 2025 ALDS. 

Addison Barger error

The Blue Jays had a lead to 6-1 in the third inning, which caused the Yankees to pull starter Carlos Rodon. New York brought in a right-handed reliever in his place and Toronto decided to pinch-hit third baseman Addison Barger in response. He ended up striking out in that plate appearance, but had a huge impact on the game in the bottom of the fourth inning. 

New York started the frame down 6-3. Anthony Volpe struck out swinging for a quick first out. Catcher Austin Wells was up second and he hit a weak fly ball toward left field. With the outfielder charging and Barger at third base fading into the outfield, the left fielder typically has priority if he wants to call for the ball. 

Instead, Barger waved off his teammate and sauntered backwards to catch the ball. It ended up fading more than he anticipated, and eventually it hits off his glove.

Wells was safe at first on the error. Trent Grisham then drew a walk, which led to Judge having two teammates on base for his plate appearance. The MVP candidate picked a good time for his first home run of the postseason and sent a line drive shot out to left field to tie the game. 

Teddy Ricketson

Teddy Ricketson is a Digital Content Producer at The Sporting News. He joined the team in 2024 after spending the last three years writing for Vox Media as part of its DK Nation/Network team. Teddy does his best to support the South Carolina Gamecocks and Carolina Panthers, but tends to have more fun cheering on the Atlanta Braves. In his free time, he loves spending time with his wife, Brooke, and their two dogs, Bo and Hootie.