Aaron Judge and Yankees: What’s Next After Elimination? In-Depth Analysis

Aaron Judge and the Yankees: The search for a title that eludes the legend

After another postseason stumble, Aaron Judge, an emblematic figure of the Yankees, faces reflection once again. The defeat in the American League Division Series against the Toronto Blue Jays marks the eighth time that Judge and the Yankees have seen their aspirations for the world title frustrated.

“You play to win. And when you don’t win, it’s not a good year,” Judge declared after the elimination.

Aaron Judge

Despite the collective disappointment, Judge’s individual season was outstanding. He led the Major Leagues in batting average (.331) and hit 53 home runs, solidifying his MVP candidacy. In the playoffs, he maintained his high performance with a .500 average and a 1.273 OPS, demonstrating his value in crucial moments. Judge has climbed the ranks in Yankees history, surpassing legends like Yogi Berra and Joe DiMaggio. He became the fourth player with four seasons of 50 or more home runs and set a record for intentional walks in the American League (36). His postseason performance has enshrined him, but the elusive World Series title has yet to arrive.

“They’ll probably make him a statue someday,” commented Carlos Rodón, Yankees pitcher. “And I feel that, before it all ends, the right thing would be for him to win at least one World Series here. I think his legacy would be etched if he won one here.”

Carlos Rodón

The pressure is on the Yankees to make the most of Judge’s golden years. Time marches on, and the opportunity to win the championship with their star is limited. On April 26, Judge will turn 34, and the team is obliged to make important decisions for the future. Uncertainty surrounds Judge’s situation, who does not rule out undergoing elbow surgery. The most likely option is rehabilitation, but the team needs to strengthen its ranks to aspire to the title. The Yankees have reached the postseason in eight of Judge’s nine full seasons in the majors, with the exception of 2023. The team’s rebuilding, following the departure of Juan Soto, focuses on free agency and the decisions of general manager Brian Cashman. Manager Aaron Boone is expected to remain at the helm of the team, after signing a contract extension. The key will be the performance of the roster and the strategies to compete in an increasingly demanding league. The starting pitchers’ body looks solid, with the return of Gerrit Cole and the presence of Max Fried, Carlos Rodón, Cam Schlittler, Luis Gil, and Will Warren. The rotation is one of the team’s strengths, with the possibility of incorporating Clarke Schmidt towards the end of the season. The bullpen is an area of concern, with the departure of several important pitchers to free agency. The strength of the bullpen will depend on new additions and the performance of David Bednar, Camilo Doval, and Fernando Cruz. In the gardens, Judge will lead the right, while the rest of the team presents questions. Cody Bellinger and Trent Grisham, who had outstanding seasons, might not continue on the team. Jasson Domínguez and Spencer Jones are internal options to reinforce the outfield. Anthony Volpe, the shortstop, has not met expectations, although his performance is expected to improve. José Caballero and George Lombard are internal options for the position. Paul Goldschmidt and Amed Rosario are free agents, and their continuity in the team is uncertain. Ben Rice could take first base, while Rosario could be an option to play third and second base. In the receiving position, Austin Wells, although he has shown regression, could share position with a right-handed catcher. J.T. Realmuto is one of the options in free agency.

The Yankees, with their winning tradition, will seek to break their 16-year title drought. The competition in the American League is fierce, but the goal of winning the World Series with Judge is a priority. “Each year is different, depending on how it goes,” Judge said. “But I think the feeling is the same if you don’t win.”