Aaron Judge shines in the playoffs, but his health raises concern

The Yankees’ offseason didn’t begin with trade rumors or celebratory headlines. It started with uncertainty. Aaron Judge, captain and face of the franchise, finds himself at the center of a medical crossroads that could define not only his own future but the team’s as well. After a season in which he led the American League with a .331 batting average and smashed 53 home runs in 152 games, the outfielder ended the year limited by a right elbow injury that forced him to play as a designated hitter for several weeks.

The discomfort began in July with a flexor strain that sidelined Aaron Judge for 10 days. Although he returned in August, his throws from right field in September were noticeably slower. Still, in the postseason, Judgereminded everyone why he’s the heart of the Bronx Bombers. He slashed .500/.581/.692 and hit a clutch three-run homer that kept the Yankees alive in the divisional series.

Surgery on the horizon?

But the pain hasn’t gone away. And now, according to Marca, Aaron Judge is considering surgery to fix the issue. His comments after the team’s elimination were vague: “We’ll probably do something… but I’m not a doctor,” he told reporters. Andy Martino, a journalist for SNY, voiced concern on Pinstripe Territory, saying, “Every time stress is placed on the elbow’s structural components, it’s only a matter of time before it fails again.”

The situation is further complicated by the recent surgery of Anthony Volpe, who underwent a procedure to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder. The shortstop, who hit .212 with 19 home runs and 72 RBIs, may miss the start of the 2026 season. With two key players sidelined—Aaron Judge among them—the Yankees’ offensive core is facing unprecedented fragility.

Massively good news for Yankees that Aaron Judge does not need elbow surgery. Boone says he will be RF next year (i.e. not necessary to think about another position like 1b).

— Andy Martino (@martinonyc) October 16, 2025

The action continues

Meanwhile, the bullpen is also under review. Devin Williams had an uneven season with a 4.79 ERA but pitched four scoreless innings in the playoffs and expressed interest in staying in New York. “I’d definitely be open to staying,” Williams told MLB.com. . With David Bednar and Camilo Doval still under contract, management must decide whether Williams fits into their plans or if they should pursue alternatives like Ryan Helsley or Raisel Iglesias.

 

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Una publicación compartida de Ralph Lauren Fragrances (@ralphlaurenfragrances)

Aaron Judge isn’t just a power hitter. He represents leadership, stability, and hope. His medical decision will be the first major move in an offseason that, for the Yankees, has already begun with more questions than answers.