
USA Today via Reuters
Mar 31, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone (17) and New York Yankees center fielder Aaron Judge (99) watch the action from the dugout against the Houston Astros during the first inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Mar 31, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone (17) and New York Yankees center fielder Aaron Judge (99) watch the action from the dugout against the Houston Astros during the first inning at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-USA TODAY Sports
Sunday baseball games are chill, right? Well, not this one. There was everything: the arguments, ejections, and foul calls! The New York Yankees were playing against the Tampa Bay Rays. Aaron Judge, the epitome of Yankee power, walked up to the plate and appeared to add another epic home run to his legacy. And here’s a twist: it was the foul ball. What are the reactions from Aaron Boone? Furious.
At George M. Steinbrenner Field, the Yanks were playing in their spring training ground due to damage at Tropicana Field. In the eighth inning, Aaron Judge hit a magnificent shot into the air. It was a home run! But the signal from the umpires made the whole stadium quiet. It’s a foul ball. Leaving everyone with what? How? After a review, the call remained, much to the dismay of the Yankees and their supporters.
It didn’t stop there. The Judge was called out on strikes on a debatable pitch moments later. Clearly annoyed, Yankees manager Aaron Boone hurried from the bench to confront home-plate umpire Adam Beck. Aaron Boone’s objection resulted in his first ejection of this season. However, the Yankees went on to win the game 4-0, but the controversial calls eclipsed the triumph. The MLB insider Bryan Hoch posted on his X handle, “Aaron Boone on the Aaron Judge HR that wasn’t: “The audacity of the call standing is remarkable. It’s a home run.” Since that call, there has been a lot of chit-chat among the fans on social media about whether it was right or not. And what Boone did was good.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Aaron Boone on the Aaron Judge HR that wasn’t: “The audacity of the call standing is remarkable. It’s a home run.”
— Bryan Hoch ⚾️ (@BryanHoch) April 20, 2025
Why should the ground be blamed? The game’s unusual setting added to the confusion. Unlike other Major League Baseball venues, George M. Steinbrenner Field lacked high foul poles, which might have contributed to the uncertainty. The ambiguous replay views had many wondering if the hitter should have benefited from the doubt.
Fans responded quickly and passionately. Comments praising Aaron Boone and expressing dissatisfaction occur on social media sites.
Fan react: The Bronx faithful sound off
The whole incident has ignited the Bronx Bombers supporters, turning them into an army of furious supporters bound together in their incredulity and unflinching loyalty to their manager and captain. Their battlefield became the internet sphere, where their frustrations and strong beliefs could be released. For the Yanks it was indeed the right thing; the voice of many is summed up with this comment: “Boone is right, total screw job!” A raw and unfiltered rage that every fan felt after the decision of the umpires.
What’s your perspective on:
Did the umpires rob Aaron Judge of a legendary home run, or was it a fair call?
Have an interesting take?

Who doesn’t like having a manager who can passionately stand up in support of their team? The passionate protection of his players has come to define his managerial approach, and the Yankees’ universe loves it. A voice from that universe, “Roast them, Aaron!” Though it involves being ejected, fans value his readiness to defend his team. His deeds are considered a focal point, inspiring the team and its followers.
The emotions can make you think out of the box that even the MLB rule book doesn’t allow. The same was witnessed: “They should appeal the call!” MLB rules forbid appeals on judgment calls like these. The episode has sparked debates on the need for better replay technology and uniform stadium architecture to avoid such disputes in the future.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
A new record? Rays might not remember, but fans do, “Would’ve easily been 470+ too.” Aaron Judge is known for his power and huge home runs. He hit a 477-foot homer against Toronto in 2024. Fans think that had the ball been judged fair, it would have been yet another amazing addition to his highlight reel.
Frustration was clearly there, which ultimately called into question MLB’s pride: “If the MLB has any pride, they change it to a homer.” However, post-game adjustments to decisions are unusual. Still, supporters are urging MLB to admit the error and implement policies to prevent such mistakes in the future.
Moving forward, the Yankees are now focusing on their series against the Cleveland Guardians. Although contentious, Aaron Boone’s ejection showed his dedication to his players. As the team progresses, fans hope such situations will enhance officiating and infrastructure.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The “total screw job” may be over, but was it right?
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Did the umpires rob Aaron Judge of a legendary home run, or was it a fair call?