_BREAKING NEWS: NEW YORK YANKEES ANNOUNCE ROSTER MOVE AFTER AARON JUDGE NEWS_
The New York Yankees have announced a significant roster move in the wake of the news that star outfielder Aaron Judge will be returning to the team. According to reports, the Yankees have designated outfielder Estevan Florial for assignment, making room for Judge on the 40-man roster.
_JUDGE’S RETURN_
As previously reported, Judge has agreed to a 9-year, $360 million contract extension with the Yankees, keeping him in pinstripes through the 2031 season. The news sent shockwaves throughout the baseball world, with many fans and analysts praising the Yankees for locking up their star player.
_ROSTER MOVE_
With Judge’s return, the Yankees needed to make a roster move to clear space for him on the 40-man roster. The team has chosen to designate Florial for assignment, which means he will be removed from the 40-man roster and will be subject to waivers.
Florial, 25, has been a highly touted prospect in the Yankees’ system, but he has struggled to find consistent playing time in the majors. In 2022, he appeared in just 17 games for the Yankees, hitting .184 with one home run and two RBIs.
“_We appreciate Estevan’s contributions to the organization, but we feel that this move is necessary to make room for Aaron Judge on the roster,” said Yankees general manager Brian Cashman. “We wish Estevan the best of luck in his future endeavors.”
_JUDGE’S IMPACT_
Judge’s return to the Yankees is expected to have a significant impact on the team’s lineup and overall performance. The 30-year-old outfielder is a perennial All-Star and one of the most feared hitters in the game, with a career batting average of .284 and 220 home runs.
“_Aaron Judge is a game-changer, and we’re thrilled to have him back in the fold,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone. “He’s a leader on and off the field, and we’re excited to see what he can do in 2023 and beyond.”
_WHAT’S NEXT_
The Yankees will now have to decide what to do with Florial, who will be subject to waivers. If he clears waivers, the Yankees can outright him to the minor leagues, where he will continue to develop and work towards returning to the majors.
In the meantime, the Yankees will focus on preparing for the 2023 season, with Judge leading the charge. The team is expected to be a contender in the American League East, and with Judge back in the fold, they will be looking to make a deep run in the playoffs.
“_We’re excited to get started and see what the 2023 season holds,” said Cashman. “With Aaron Judge leading the way, we’re confident that we can make a run at the championship.”
