Aaron Judge's return from injury has provided a significant boost to the New York Yankees, giving them a perceived edge over the New York Mets as the two teams prepare for their latest Subway Series matchup in the Bronx.
The Yankees received a much-needed lift with Judge rejoining the lineup this week after a fractured rib sidelined him for over three months. His presence is expected to help struggling teammates like Ben Rice and Cody Bellinger find their form, and to aid deadline acquisitions Luis García Jr. and Heliot Ramos at the plate. The Yankees had endured inconsistent offensive performance during Judge's absence, at one point holding the worst on-base percentage in the majors without their captain.
Despite the Mets' improved play in recent weeks, highlighted by contributions from Carson Benge and Brett Baty, and a healthier Juan Soto, their postseason aspirations were largely derailed by a significant losing streak in April. Nevertheless, the Mets have shown signs of life, particularly since becoming sellers at the trade deadline. They have notably improved their slugging percentage, ranking second in the majors entering Wednesday's games since the deadline. Players like Baty, Bichette, and Soto are expected to continue their offensive contributions, potentially benefiting from the short right-field porch at Yankee Stadium.
On the Field Matchups
In the field, the Yankees aimed to strengthen their defense up the middle with the addition of rookie shortstop Lombard, though he is reportedly experiencing growing pains. Without Jazz Chisholm Jr. due to a sprained thumb, the Yankees will likely rely on José Caballero or Anthony Volpe at second base, neither of whom have extensive experience at the position. The Mets have seen serviceable performances from Jared Young at first base and Bichette at third, but there have been steps back defensively from second baseman Francisco Lindor and shortstop Semien.
In the outfield, the Yankees will be cautious with Judge's playing time, potentially giving starts in right field to Heliot Ramos or Jasson Domínguez. Harrison Jones has appeared solid in center field, with Cody Bellinger in left. The Mets are still managing Soto's workload in left field following a calf strain, a position that is spacious at Yankee Stadium. Nick Morabito is also expected to see time there, while A.J. Ewing and Carson Benge have demonstrated defensive capabilities.
On the basepaths, the Yankees' Caballero has shown danger, though his ability to reach base consistently has been a limitation. The Mets' Ewing and Benge are seen as threats to disrupt opposing defenses, and Morabito is noted for his speed, despite having been caught stealing twice.
Pitching and Management
The Yankees' rotation is slated to feature Carlos Rodón, Gerrit Cole, and Cam Schlittler. Rodón has been effective but struggled to pitch deep into games since returning from an elbow issue, and Cole has shown uncharacteristic shakiness. Schlittler, however, has reportedly been in Cy Young form. The Mets will counter with three rookie pitchers: Nolan McLean, Zac Thornton, and Christian Scott.
The Yankees' bullpen appears to have depth with strong performances from Brett Headrick, Paul Blackburn, and closer David Bednar, along with Michael Fulmer and John Schreiber. The Mets' bullpen has undergone significant changes since the trade deadline, but interim manager Andy Green has utilized Nate Lavender, Daniel Duarte, and Dedniel Núñez effectively, with Kodai Senga also contributing in a closer role.
While Green has instilled a better playing mentality in the Mets, Yankees manager Aaron Boone has guided his team toward another playoff berth. Intangibly, the Yankees have been energized by Judge's return, a factor that could prove crucial as they aim to secure a postseason spot.