Aaron Judge Hits Home Run in Return from Injury as Yankees Defeat Twins

MINNEAPOLIS — Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism about Aaron Judge's performance after his return from a three-month injury layoff, which was validated when Judge hit a three-run home run during the Yankees' 8-3 victory over the Twins at Target Field on Monday night. The home run, estimated at 397 feet, came after Judge had struggled at the plate, entering the game with a batting average of .150 since his return. "It felt good — just like the other swings, at least I made contact that time, so it’s a little better than the other ones," Judge said, acknowledging his early struggles in the game. His teammates, including Ben Rice, praised the home run, with Rice stating, "Oh my goodness, that was quite a shot. What a swing." Judge's return is seen as crucial for the Yankees as they aim for the postseason, with Boone noting that Judge has accumulated valuable at-bats since his return. Boone indicated that he might rest Judge for the series finale on Wednesday, allowing him to be ready for the final stretch of the regular season.