Judge Returns to Yankees Lineup, Expresses Frustration

Aaron Judge returned to the New York Yankees lineup on Tuesday, September 9, 2026, playing six innings in the team's 5-3 victory over the Colorado Rockies, but the star slugger expressed dissatisfaction with his limited playing time. Judge, who had been sidelined since May 31 with a fractured rib, went hitless in three at-bats, striking out twice. He was replaced in the eighth inning by Heliot Ramos, who then hit a decisive three-run home run. Manager Aaron Boone confirmed that Judge was not pleased about being removed from the game early, despite having been informed beforehand that his workload would be managed. "I respect Boone, so, whatever he says, I'm going to do. But I'm not happy about it," Judge stated after the game. He added that he hoped to play more than six innings in his next appearance. Boone explained the decision was made to protect the player, who is considered the Yankees' best hitter and captain. "The competitor in him wants to be out there, and I get that," Boone said.