Mets, Red Sox bet big on managers—Judge sidelined for playoffs

Mets stick with Andy Green
The Mets just locked up Andy Green for three more years after he took over mid-season when Carlos Mendoza got the boot. Green had been talking like he wanted to bail for the front office, but the dugout won him over. New York’s sitting at 86-76, fighting for a Wild Card spot—so the brass is betting Green’s the guy to get them there. Not a flashy move, but steady. Front office must like what they’re seeing in the clubhouse.

Red Sox make Chad Tracy permanent
Boston’s handing Chad Tracy a three-year deal with a 2030 option after he took over for Alex Cora when the Sox were 12-17. Since then? 74-55. That’s a .574 win clip—playoff-caliber ball. Tracy’s not a big name, but the numbers don’t lie. Boston’s playing smart, aggressive baseball, and the front office just doubled down. If they keep this up, they’ll be a problem in October.

Judge’s Wild Card hopes dashed
Bad news for the Yankees: Aaron Judge’s got a “moderate grade” strain, and Boone’s already ruled him out for the Wild Card series. Judge got a PPP shot yesterday, but that’s not a magic fix. Without him, New York’s lineup loses its biggest bat—and its biggest intimidation factor. The Yankees are still in the hunt, but this is a gut punch. If they don’t get past the first round, Judge’s absence will be the story.

Strange-Gordon’s emotional HR turns 10
Ten years ago today, Dee Strange-Gordon hit one of the most emotional homers in baseball history—the day after his best friend, José Fernández, died. He’s still convinced it was divine intervention. That moment’s a reminder: baseball’s more than stats. It’s about heart, grief, and sometimes, something bigger than the game.