The Tampa Bay Rays were preparing as if Aaron Judge would be available for the American League Division Series. The New York Yankees were initially hopeful that the former MVP would be ready to go. As Judge continues to recover from a calf injury, however, it was announced on Saturday that Judge is not on the Yankees' ALDS roster.

So, can the Yankees still find a way to defeat the team that finished with the best record in the American League this season? Finding a way to win without Judge will be a challenge, but New York is still poised to get the job done.

The Yankees have one of their best starting rotations in recent memory. Gerrit Cole, a veteran with a proven track record, is set to start Game 1 in Tampa Bay. The expected AL Cy Young winner, Cam Schlittler, will take the ball in Game 2. Carlos Rodon and Max Fried are options for Games 3 and 4 back in New York.

Article Continues Below

There is no denying the fact that Tampa Bay features a complete team. They do just about everything well. However, this Rays team has struggled in the playoffs over the years. The Yankees have found more success despite not winning the World Series since 2009.

It should be a competitive series that will likely last at least four games and possibly all five contests. Yankees fans may be tempted to be concerned about the team's chances of upsetting the Rays without Judge, but there is no need to panic. This Yankees ball club can still defeat their AL East rival despite the slugger's injury absence.