Will Aaron Judge play for Yankees in ALDS vs. Rays? It seems unlikely

Aaron Judge is unlikely to be included on the New York Yankees' roster for the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays due to a right calf strain. Although Judge took batting practice at Tropicana Field on Friday, he did not run on the turf or participate in defensive drills in the outfield. Manager Aaron Boone noted that team officials and trainers are evaluating Judge's status, leaving open the slight possibility of his use as a pinch hitter.

Without Judge, the Yankees are expected to start rookie Spencer Jones in right field. Meanwhile, Giancarlo Stanton is available primarily as a pinch-hitting option following an injury-plagued regular season. The team also dealt with significant travel delays entering Florida after mechanical issues grounded their initial charter flight, forcing them to switch airports late Thursday before landing early Friday morning.