For weeks, fans have been seeking transparency over Aaron Judge’s defensive role, and now the Yankees’ latest move has only exacerbated the debate. After Aaron Boone initially warned of “ drastic consequences ” if Judge was rushed back, the decision to place him into right field on Sunday has left New York divided. Many see it as a bet that risks worsening his injury rather than strengthening the playoff push.

The context stretches back to late July, when Judge suffered a right elbow flexor strain that sidelined him defensively. Since his August 5 return, Boone carefully used him as a designated hitter, ensuring his throwing arm was exempted from a heavy workload. That conservative approach seemed to be the plan for September, too, but the sudden change has ignited fresh skepticism.

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