Can Aaron Judge and Juan Soto lead the Yankees back to AL East dominance? New York team in for crucial second half

After opening the year as one of the top teams in baseball, the New York Yankees entered the All-Star break in an extended slump which has led to several questions about the team second-half. Before the All-Star Game, the Bronx Bombers had posted a disappointing 8-17 record over their last 25 games, something they will need to change to accomplish their World Series goals.

Entering the second half of the year, there have been questions about the current state of New York's roster and whether or not Aaron Judge and Juan Soto will be able to get them over the hump. Even though both Soto and Judge were named to the All-Star Game this week, their elite offensive impact has not been enough for the club to overcome some of its weaknesses at times.

Entering the second half of the season, the New York Yankees (58-40) sit only one game behind the Baltimore Orioles (58-38) for the American League East. Although Aaron Judge and Juan Soto have been a major part of their success through the first half of the year, if either player were to miss time with an injury, it would be a massive blow to the team.

Judge and Soto might be able to help the club surpass the Orioles before the end of the season. But the club undoubtedly needs to upgrade parts of its roster to make a deep postseason run. If they fail to do so, it would be a waste of a tremendous season from Soto and Judge.

The Yankees will need to bolster the roster around Aaron Judge and Juan Soto to win the World Series

A serious injury to either Aaron Judge or Juan Soto could derail the Bronx Bombers' season. Due to underwhelming performances from some of the team's veterans such as DJ LeMahieu and Carlos Rodon, as well as injuries to stars such as Giancarlo Stanton, it's clear that the front office needs to make some moves.

It remains to be seen how active general manager Brian Cashman will be before the MLB trade deadline at the end of July; however, the club has been linked to several players. Closer Mason Miller, pitcher Garrett Crochet and outfielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. are three players who have reportedly been on the team's radar. If the Yankees can land any of these players, it would only maximize the potential of the Judge-Soto roster.