Aaron Judge remains unsure for ALDS after missing Yankees’ first-round win over Red Sox

New York Yankees' captain Aaron Judge remains uncertain about his availability for the American League Division Series (ALDS) after leading his team to a sweep over the Boston Red Sox in the Wild Card round. Judge, who has been sidelined since September 16 due to a strained right calf, participated in live batting practice at the Yankees' Double-A ballpark in Somerset, New Jersey, in an effort to recover from the leg injury before the postseason.

Speaking after the 9-2 victory, Judge expressed his determination to be ready for Game 1 of the ALDS, scheduled for Saturday, emphasizing that he was doing everything possible to prepare himself. However, he did not accompany his team to the first-base line for introductions prior to the Yankees' 9-0 victory in the Wild Card opener.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone noted that Judge was receiving treatment. The three-time AL Most Valuable Player had played just 66 games this season, batting .241 with 18 home runs, 41 RBIs, and an .871 OPS, including a .174 average with one homer and three RBIs in September. Left-hander Ryan Weathers, sidelined since August 22 due to a left forearm flexor strain, was scheduled to throw a bullpen session at Yankee Stadium.

Boone also confirmed that right-hander Clarke Schmidt, who returned from Tommy John surgery on July 11, 2025, with right biceps inflammation, will not pitch again this year.