Aaron Judge Returns: Yankees Slump Continues Against Rangers—What's Next for the Bronx Bombers?

By Oliver Wiener August 08, 2025 09:59

The New York Yankees welcomed back their star slugger Aaron Judge on August 5, 2025, ending his 10-day absence due to a flexor strain in his right elbow. Despite the much-anticipated return, the Yankees’ struggles have persisted as they suffered their fifth consecutive loss, a 2-0 shutout defeat to the Texas Rangers. Judge started in the designated hitter role, yet struggled to find his rhythm, going 0-for-3 with two strikeouts against Rangers ace Nathan Eovaldi, who pitched masterfully to lower his ERA to 1.38.

Judge's elbow injury had sparked concerns about the team’s offensive firepower, but reassuring MRI results confirmed no acute damage to the ulnar collateral ligament, sparing Judge from Tommy John surgery and allowing a swift return. Manager Aaron Boone indicated that Judge would begin a throwing program shortly, with expectations that he would remain DH initially before eventually returning to right field. Boone also noted the tricky roster decisions this creates, especially since Giancarlo Stanton, who has been hot lately, might see limited playing time as Judge eases back.

The Yankees, who started July atop the AL East, have plummeted to third place with a 60-54 record. Their once-potent lineup has sputtered during this rough patch, going 18-29 since mid-June. Boone openly acknowledged the team's mistakes, both mental and physical, stressing the need for immediate improvements. Judge echoed this sentiment: “We’ve got some work to do. A lot of things to clean up. But the boys in here are fired up to change all that and get things right. We’ve got a great ballclub in here. It’s a lot of mistakes all around. Some mental mistakes, some physical mistakes. We’ve got to fix them now”.

The offensive woes continued Tuesday night, as the Yankees’ lineup was stymied by Eovaldi’s sharp pitching. Judge struck out twice and grounded out once, while his teammates managed only a handful of baserunners. The bullpen held the Rangers scoreless until the eighth inning, when closer Devin Williams surrendered two runs, sealing the Yankees' fate. Despite the loss, the starting pitching showed promise, keeping the run tally low, but without offensive support, victories have been elusive.

With Judge’s return, the Yankees hope to regain their offensive identity, yet the adjustment period may take time. Stanton, who has hit 10 home runs in his last 24 games, has been relegated mostly to pinch-hitting duties as Judge occupies DH, highlighting the balancing act Boone faces. Stanton has even practiced outfield drills, indicating possible defensive shifts once Judge resumes throwing and fielding duties.

Judge’s season remains impressive despite the injury, leading MLB with a .342 batting average, ranking fourth with 37 home runs, and fifth with 85 RBIs. His presence is crucial as the Yankees navigate a critical phase in their playoff chase. Boone remains optimistic: “I believe [Judge] is quite positive about his recovery progress… We hope that once he embarks on his throwing program, it proceeds smoothly, allowing for rapid advancement.” The Yankees will need Judge and the entire lineup firing fully to halt the current slump and keep their postseason hopes alive.

In summary, Aaron Judge’s return provides a much-needed boost to a Yankees squad struggling through a losing streak. Yet, they face the challenge of regaining consistency both at the plate and in the field. How quickly Judge can resume full duties, combined with elevating the team’s collective play, will shape the Bronx Bombers' path forward in this crucial part of the season.