Is Aaron Judge in a ‘Weird Situation’? Yankees’ Series Loss to Orioles Heavily Linked to Judge’s Inability to Produce Runs

Multiple predictions surrounded the Bronx Bombers. Some called the New York Yankees favorites of the AL East and many considered Aaron Judge to be the AL MVP frontrunner. While the former can still be true, the latter is increasingly becoming difficult for ‘All Rise’. The entire first month saw Judge consistently underperform. However, even the biggest of cynics didn’t expect there to be calls to switch Judge’s position. 

The Yankees’ captain has gone from being the most loved Pinstripe to one who is getting divisive reactions from the fans. On one side, the Yankees Faithful know that there is no replacing Aaron Judge. On the other side, some believe that ‘All Rise’ needs to be rested. That has brought Judge to a “weird situation,” especially after the series loss against the Baltimore Orioles.

After 33 games Aaron Judge’s batting average sits at a measly .197. Even though his production hasn’t been bad (6 homers and 18 RBI), Judge’s inability to find a hit is quite concerning. So is his reduced power. Though Judge isn’t worried, “It’s baseball,” the star said in his post-game interview. “I’ve had stretches like these plenty in the major leagues, plenty throughout my life. It’s part of it. I can’t sit here and dwell on it.” 

Though that is an admirable trait, one can’t deny that this fall in Judge’s number is a little worrisome. Especially, when he has just entered the second year of his 9-year $360 million deal. The fact that the Yankees haven’t suffered due to Judge’s downfall is a testament to the consistency shown by Juan Soto. However, it is to be noted that the star is just here for one year – there’s no guarantee he’ll be here next season.

Perhaps that’s why worries for ‘All Rise’s’ hitting future are so high. But, Aaron Judge’s dry spell doesn’t worry the New York Yankees. Aaron Boone’s comments show the team’s belief in their captain.

“He’s just grinding right now”: the Yankees’ skipper shows belief in Aaron Judge

“He’s just grinding right now to get here, and he will,” Aaron Boone said. “Somebody’s gonna pay big time. He’s gained some traction. He’s stacked some good days in a row…He’ll get it going. And look out when it does.” 

The Yankees certainly hope that Boone’s prediction proves to be right. Because as of now, Judge is looking to end the season with a number that is a far cry from his usual standards. More importantly, as the series against the Baltimore Orioles showed – the Yankees can’t completely depend on Juan Soto. Despite the Dominican slugger’s heroics, the Bronx Bombers couldn’t avoid defeat in three out of four games. 

“It’s May. It’s a new month..Time to get going,” Aaron Judge said. Hopefully, May does bring about a massive change in form for ‘All Rise’ – the superstar desperately needs it.