New York Yankees fans spent months believing that Aaron Judge’s return would resolve numerous issues for the team. His much-anticipated comeback on Tuesday night against the Colorado Rockies was less than ideal. Expectations were not for a three-home-run performance immediately, but his 0-for-3 showing, including two strikeouts, was disappointing for the Bronx faithful.

Aaron Judge returned to the Yankees after missing 83 games due to a rib injury. The Yankees’ captain hadn’t played since May 31 because of a right rib stress fracture. He resumed his usual position in right field and batted third in the lineup. Judge’s first turn at bat resulted in a strikeout; he flied out on the second attempt and struck out looking in his third opportunity. Manager Aaron Boone pulled Judge after just six defensive innings, ending a lackluster performance.

In a twist, the crucial offensive boost of the game did not come from Judge. In the eighth inning, Heliot Ramos, taking Judge’s spot, hit a three-run home run, securing a 5-3 victory for the Yankees.

Despite trailing the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East, Judge was determined to jump straight into the action. The Yankees agreed to treat his return series as a semi-rehab stint, managing his workload carefully. This plan might have made strategic sense, but Judge’s first game back didn’t inspire confidence.

While Judge was out, the Yankees struggled with a .227 team batting average. Fans viewed his return as a significant morale boost, likening it to the return of a legend. Though back in uniform, Judge’s performance suggested he was still working through rust from his time off.