Breaking their nine-game losing streak, the New York Yankees found much-needed relief as star player Aaron Judge smashed three home runs to secure a crucial 9-1 victory against the Nationals in the Bronx.
Aaron Judge’s remarkable feat marked his first-ever three-homer game in his eight-year MLB career. The Yankees’ losing streak, their longest since 1982, was on the brink of extending to 10 games, which would have been their lengthiest skid since 1913, but Judge’s performance reversed the tide.
Judge’s impressive batting display was complemented by starter Luis Severino, who pitched 6 2/3 scoreless innings, only allowing one hit while striking out two and walking two. This performance was a welcome improvement for Severino, who had struggled with a high ERA and conceded numerous runs in his recent outings.
Judge’s three homers were a standout feature of the game, and his grand slam in particular showcased his power, propelling the Yankees to a 6-0 lead. His final home run in the seventh inning capped off his stellar night with six RBIs, making him the first Yankee since Alex Rodriguez in 2005 to hit three home runs in one game, including a grand slam.
Judge’s overall season statistics are impressive, with a slash line of .279/.406/.645 and 27 home runs in 72 games. Despite his stellar performance, a previous injury prevents him from challenging Shohei Ohtani for the top individual honors in the American League this season.
The Yankees’ victory brought their season record to 61-65, yet they still remain at the bottom of the AL East and face a significant gap of 9 1/2 games from the final wild-card spot. This disappointing performance has intensified scrutiny on manager Aaron Boone and long-time general manager Brian Cashman.
Speaking about the team’s current state before the triumphant win, Cashman candidly labeled the season as a “disaster.” The Yankees’ struggles have been building over multiple years, resulting in a decline from their strong position last season.
While there is still a chance for the team to reverse their fortunes, the reality remains that the Yankees were in a rut with a winless streak since August 11 and a poor 12-27 record since July 4. The odds are against them for making the playoffs, increasing the likelihood of potential changes in both the managerial staff and front office. Despite Judge’s remarkable performance, the season has been tumultuous, living up to the label of a “disaster.”