The New York Yankees face significant challenges as they navigate the playoffs, particularly if they exit early. While their inconsistent starting pitching has been a notable issue, a more pressing concern is the underwhelming performance of their best player, Aaron Judge, in the first two games of the ALDS.
Judge, who is expected to win the MVP award after a stellar regular season, has struggled in the postseason. During the regular season, he posted an impressive .322 batting average, .458 on-base percentage, and .701 slugging percentage, hitting 58 home runs and driving in 144 runs. However, his postseason stats have not matched that level of excellence, continuing a trend of disappointing playoff performances.
In his playoff career, Judge has played 46 games and holds a batting line of .208/.311/.449. This includes 13 home runs and 25 RBIs, which equates to a 106 wRC+, significantly below his regular-season performance, where he was 118% better than the average MLB hitter.
In the opening game against the Kansas City Royals, Judge struck out three times, with a single walk contributing minimally to the offense. In the following game, which ended in a 4–2 loss, Judge had one hit, one walk, and one strikeout, further highlighting his struggles.
Missed opportunities have been a recurring theme, especially in high-pressure situations. In Game 2, Judge faced a critical moment with Gleyber Torres and Juan Soto on base and no outs in the first inning. However, he struck out on just four pitches, unable to capitalize against Cole Ragans, one of the league’s top left-handed pitchers.
In these crucial playoff matches, every at-bat counts, particularly with runners in scoring position. Judge’s failure to deliver in Game 2’s first inning proved to be a missed chance that could have changed the game’s momentum.
The Yankees’ offensive difficulties extend beyond Judge. With an inconsistent pitching staff, the team needs a collective effort from its hitters. Although Juan Soto has performed well, the Yankees cannot rely solely on one player to shoulder the offensive burden.
If Judge continues to struggle at the plate, it could jeopardize the team’s chances in the postseason. His performance is vital, especially as the Yankees face a tough path ahead.
As the series shifts to Kansas City for Game 3, the urgency for Judge to regain his form increases. The stakes are high, and the Yankees desperately need their captain to perform at the elite level he demonstrated throughout the regular season.
Overall, Judge’s struggles could become a decisive factor in the Yankees’ playoff fate unless he can quickly turn things around and lead his team effectively.