New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge has been placed on the injured list after being diagnosed with a flexor strain, according to manager Aaron Boone's remarks to reporters on Saturday. Boone indicated that Judge's ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) remains intact, and he is expected to serve as a designated hitter upon his return from the injured list.

Judge missed the Yankees' 9-4 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday due to what was initially described as an 'elbow issue.' Boone reported that Judge experienced difficulties throwing during Friday night's game against the visiting Phillies. In that contest, Judge recorded no hits, along with one run batted in and a strikeout across three at-bats.

During a broadcast on a Tuesday night game against the Toronto Blue Jays, announcers noted Judge's visible discomfort after making a throw from the outfield in the seventh inning. He returned to the lineup on Wednesday in a designated hitter role instead of his customary position in right field. Boone stated prior to the game, 'He’s okay. It’s not much,' commenting on the adjustment. Following a day off on Thursday, Boone mentioned that Judge felt improved. However, during Friday's series opener against the Phillies, Boone acknowledged that Judge was 'really dealing with it' and struggled with throwing from the outfield. This marks the first game Judge has missed this season for the Yankees. Despite this setback, he has been a leading candidate for his second consecutive Most Valuable Player award, currently leading Major League Baseball with a .342 batting average across 103 games. Judge's absence coincided with the Yankees' acquisition of third baseman Ryan McMahon from the Colorado Rockies, aimed at bolstering the team's infield defense. McMahon has already made an impact, hitting three home runs in six games since the All-Star break, potentially providing additional offensive support during Judge's anticipated short-term absence.