Yankees Swept by Blue Jays as Aaron Judge Ties Mickey Mantle’s Historic Walk Record

TORONTO — The New York Yankees’ rough patch continued Sunday as they fell 8–5 to the Toronto Blue Jays, capping off a four-game sweep that not only bruised the Bronx Bombers’ momentum but also knocked them out of first place in the American League East standings.

Despite the team’s recent struggles, one silver lining emerged: Aaron Judge, nicknamed “The Judge,” was intentionally walked for the 23rd time this season — tying a franchise record set in 1957 by the legendary Mickey Mantle. It’s yet another testament to the fear Judge inspires in opposing pitchers, even as the rest of the Yankees’ offense has cooled.

Judge Held Quiet in the Finale

The Blue Jays managed to limit Judge’s production throughout the series, and Sunday was no exception. The slugger went 1-for-2 with an infield single and an RBI. He also drew a walk and grounded into a double play — a rare mix of results for the Yankees’ biggest star.

Toronto’s game plan was clear: don’t let Judge beat them. And it worked.

Pitching Troubles Continue for Yankees

Yankees starter Clarke Schmidt gave up an RBI single to Addison Barger early in the game, allowing Toronto to strike first. Though New York managed to tie the game at 3–3, a two-run single from Nathan Lukes in the fourth inning gave the Blue Jays the lead once again.

Things spiraled further in the fifth when Barger crushed a home run, immediately followed by another from George Springer, extending Toronto’s lead to a commanding 8–3. The Yankees were never able to fully recover.

A Record Tied, but Momentum Lost

Judge’s 23rd intentional walk is a milestone few players will ever reach — a reminder of the elite company he keeps. Matching Mantle’s mark is no small feat, but the context of the Yankees’ current slide makes the achievement bittersweet.

While Judge continues to anchor the lineup and chase history, the rest of the Yankees’ roster has failed to keep pace. As summer heats up and the postseason race tightens, New York will need more than records — they’ll need results.

📌 For fans of Aaron Judge and the Yankees faithful, the message is clear: greatness is still there — but it’s time to rally.