Aaron Judge is not on the New York Yankees' roster for the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays due to a right calf strain. Yankees manager Aaron Boone stated keeping Judge off the roster is the best decision to ensure he is fully recovered for a potential World Series run. Judge has been progressing, facing live pitching and running, but needs more time to build endurance. The Yankees included Giancarlo Stanton and Ryan Weathers on the 26-man roster. Stanton will serve as a pinch hitter, while Weathers, returning from a forearm strain, will be a one-inning reliever with usage restrictions. The team carries 11 pitchers and 15 position players. Judge last played on September 16 after returning from a fractured rib. The ALDS begins Saturday at Tropicana Field.
The Yankees swept the Boston Red Sox in the wild-card round without Judge, outscoring them 18-2. Stanton did not take an at-bat in that series. Weathers last pitched on August 22. The schedule includes off days after Games 1 and 2, accommodating Weathers' restrictions. Boone emphasized the importance of having a healthy Judge for the team's postseason aspirations.
Source: ESPN MLB · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing