The New York Yankees will face the Boston Red Sox in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series on Tuesday, and all eyes are on Aaron Judge's status.
Judge is dealing with a calf strain and is on the injured list. While Aaron Boone has said the team is not planning to have the three-time MVP play, Judge has said he plans to play in Game 1. He has not been ruled out, but the team has not said he is playing either.
Judge has also noted that if he returns, he wants to be able to play in the field. He believes that gives the Yankees the best possible lineup. However, his calf injury is still fresh, so playing in the field may seem like a huge step to take this early.
"I don't know," Boone said of Judge's chances of playing right field. "We'll continue to evaluate and I'll listen to trainers and medical and see where we're at."
One would think that if Judge plays against the Red Sox, he may be limited to a pinch-hitting role or only serve as a designated hitter. However, he is doing everything he can to be out there and help his team. He is scheduled to take live batting practice on Monday, but he still has not run the bases.
Whether or not Judge plays could have a huge impact on this series. He is one of the best players in baseball, and his presence in the lineup alone can impact a game.