Boone’s Ejection Sparks Yankees’ Victory Over Orioles

BRONX, N.Y. — Aaron Boone received a rousing ovation from 46,085 fans after he was ejected during the fifth inning of Saturday’s game against the Baltimore Orioles. Boone’s seventh ejection of the season came after he argued questionable calls made by home plate umpire Ramon De Jesus.

“I didn’t even boil over,” Boone said after the game. “But an emotional response [by De Jesus]. There were a couple calls early, but once again by him, a real quick hook.” Boone’s frustration added some excitement as the Yankees maintained a 3-0 lead with the bases loaded.

In that crucial moment, superstar Aaron Judge stepped to the plate and faced two inside pitches, both called strikes. Despite Boone’s ejection, Judge delivered a two-run single that helped the Yankees secure a 6-1 victory over the Orioles.

“I didn’t really hear [Boone] even say much, so I was surprised he got tossed there,” Judge noted. “I didn’t agree with the calls, but you got to stay focused. Always appreciative when Booney has our back.”

Giancarlo Stanton also contributed to the Yankees’ offensive display, hitting a home run that moved him to 40th place on the all-time home run list with 453. Up next are José Canseco and Adam Dunn at 462.

As the Yankees prepare for the postseason, J.C. Escarra joined the taxi squad on Saturday. Boone stated, “J.C.’s been a big part of our team this year and certainly important to have him here” for potential pinch-hitting or pinch-running substitutions.

With Saturday’s win, the Yankees achieved their 20th sellout of the season, matching their second-most in the current stadium since 2018.

Judge’s performance also had implications for the American League East standings. The Yankees (93-68) are tied with the Toronto Blue Jays, who beat the Tampa Bay Rays later Saturday. The division title will come down to Sunday’s final game.

“Kind of crazy,” Boone added about the situation. “It’s going to come down to that last day. That’s baseball… it should make for an exciting day.”

As Judge closed in on the batting title with a .331 average, he also hit his 53rd home run and drove in three runs on Saturday. He is poised to become one of only three players in MLB history to hit over 50 home runs while winning the batting title.

“The guy can do it all,” said Ryan McMahon, who also homered in the win. “I think it’s a no-doubt MVP.”

After the game, the Yankees’ only concern was Judge getting hit by a pitch, but X-rays and a CT scan showed no serious injury. Boone expressed confidence in his team’s current momentum as they look forward to the playoffs, noting the impressive performances of Judge and Stanton.

“I definitely like where they’re at, how they’re playing,” Boone said. “Those two guys are game-changers, obviously.”