Judge has tooth fixed, back in lineup
Yankees slugger Aaron Judge was back in the starting lineup Friday night, a day after he accidentally lost half of his front left tooth during a home-plate celebration.
“I’m all good,” fixed.”
The American League home run leader sawa dentist earlier in the day and got a temporary replacement. Later, he’ll go back for a permanent piece.
On Thursday night, Judgewas jarred when Brett Gardner’s batting helmet accidentally popped him in the mouth. Gardner hit a he said. “Got it winning home run in the bottom of the 11th inning and tossed his helmet as he approached the plate.
Judge picked up the helmet because hewasworriedsomeone might step on it and roll an ankle. Instead, he got hit by the helmet during all the jostling.
“(It) got me pretty Judge said.
The 6-foot-7 Judge tried to scoot off the field without anyone noticing while the Yankees were still celebrating their 6-5 win. No luck escaping without being spotted with a grimace.
Therewasnoluck eitherwhen a member of the team’s security good,” staff went back on the field after it cleared, searching for the cracked tooth.
“Last night I had to sit and stare at that all night,” Judge said.
Already gap-toothed before the accident, Judge didn’t feel much like documenting his new look. He said he took one picture of himself, which he put away for safekeeping — and managed to keep off social media.
“Obviously we’re very relieved,” manager Joe Girardi said. “I’m sure it was a somewhat uncomfortable night for him.
“I’m sure the ribbing will continue for a number of days. This will not stop after (Friday).”