In a record-breaking performance, Aaron Judge hit his 34th home run of the season for the Yankees, setting a new franchise record for most home runs before the All-Star break. Judge surpassed legends like Roger Maris and himself in this impressive feat. However, a heated rivalry between the Yankees and Orioles escalated after a benches-clearing incident involving a hit-by-pitch, resulting in an Orioles player being placed on the IL due to a concussion. The Yankees also suffered a blow with Jose Trevino landing on the 10-day IL with a quad strain. Despite the Yankees being active buyers at the trade deadline, injuries to their top prospects may hinder their ability to acquire key targets, with scouts labeling them as a "Red Flag organization" due to potential risks associated with their trade chips.