The Yankees’ season changed dramatically Thursday evening, when the team announced that Aaron Judge has a stress fracture in his rib and will likely be out until after the All-Star break. Given that speculation around his injury evolved to include thoracic outlet syndrome, a stress fracture that just needs rest qualifies as a relief. But given that Judge is as crucial to his team’s fate as any player in baseball, it also qualifies as a problem.

We all have questions about exactly how the Yanks will cope with losing the best right-handed hitter of his generation. So let’s take a stab at a few of them now...

Cashman at the least has to call the Angels to see if their CFer might be willing to waive his no-trade, right? -- @kenwhitehepflc

I mean, I certainly would. I have long operated under the assumption that if Mike Trout was willing to be dealt, he would have been by now. But after the show Trout put on when the Angels were in town last month, the idea of adding him to the Yankees’ outfield mix is certainly enticing. I don’t think it will happen. I don’t think the Yankees need to go big replacing Judge.

But I will say, Giancarlo Stanton is only under contract through next year if the Yankees do not pick up his 2028 option, and Trent Grisham is a free agent again this winter. They will have more outfield at-bats to give the next few years than they have in some time. So I think it’s fair to dream.

Have to tread water until he gets back, and the defense, situational ball - imagine? - and bullpen have to be sharp. -- @SMD_LS

Exactly. And the defense and ability to play situational baseball are why I think this team is better equipped to handle life without Judge than teams past. Though the advanced metrics do not reflect this, they are far peskier on the bases than slugging Yankees teams normally are. Only three teams have stolen more bases.

Aaron Boone indicated this week that they will probably be more aggressive on the bases with Judge out in order to create runs. In Jose Caballero, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Cody Bellinger, and others, they have personnel with the speed and know-how to make their running game a difference maker.

The bullpen being sharp is less of a sure thing, though the fact that the Yankees will add to it feels like one.

And as for treading water, Jasson Dominguez is nearing his return from injury and will likely get some run in the outfield. Based on his play in spring training and during his brief major league stint, he looks like a capable producer. If Stanton continues his progress and can return, say, a week or so from now, that combination should be more than capable of keeping New York afloat until Judge and his power return to help them set sail again.

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