TAMPA, Florida – The New York Yankees’ offseason, initially marked by a perceived lack of activity, drew the frustration of captain Aaron Judge, who openly expressed his impatience for significant roster improvements. While other teams in the American League East aggressively pursued high-profile free agents, the Yankees remained relatively quiet, a situation Judge described as “brutal.”
“Early on, it was pretty tough to watch,” Judge admitted during Spring Training media availability. “I’m like, ‘Man, we’re the New York Yankees. Let’s go out there and get the right people, the right pieces to go out there and finish this thing off.’” The sentiment reflects a desire for immediate contention and a recognition of the competitive landscape within the AL East.
The Yankees eventually addressed those concerns, most notably with the re-signing of Cody Bellinger to a five-year, $162.5 million contract in January. Judge actively lobbied for Bellinger’s return, and the move was met with approval. Further bolstering the roster were the returns of Trent Grisham and veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. Judge believes these additions have positioned the team favorably following a 94-win season.
“We were kind of sitting there for a while making smaller moves. It was tough there in the beginning,” Judge said. “Once we solidified getting Bellinger back, we’ve got Trent being our center fielder for another year, then we got a guy like Goldy back… I think we’re in a good spot.” The initial hesitancy to make splashy moves gave way to a series of acquisitions that Judge feels have addressed key areas of need.
Despite the potential negative connotations associated with the phrase “run it back,” Judge embraced the opportunity to compete with a largely familiar core. “I love it,” he stated. “People might have their opinions on it because we didn’t win it all last year and we fell short in the Division Series, but we get a chance to bring a lot of those guys back – they’re impact players… I like our chances.” This suggests a belief in the existing talent and a commitment to building upon last season’s successes.
Judge’s offseason wasn’t solely focused on roster construction. He also prepared for his role as captain of Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, a responsibility he viewed with considerable pride. “I never had the opportunity to represent the United States,” Judge said. “To have the opportunity to wear that across the chest is going to be something very powerful.”
Adding to the positive outlook, Judge also indicated that concerns regarding his throwing elbow have subsided. He is expected to play right field throughout the Classic, having been limited late last season due to a right flexor strain suffered in July. “That was the hardest part for me last year,” Judge explained. “The arm is working, the guys around me are working, and then the ball comes to me and I have no chance.” His ability to return to full strength in the outfield is crucial to the Yankees’ defensive plans.
Judge is coming off a stellar offensive season, posting a .331/.457/.688 slash line with 53 home runs and 114 RBIs. He secured his third American League Most Valuable Player award, solidifying his position as one of the game’s premier players. Manager Aaron Boone highlighted Judge’s growth not only as a player but also as a leader and a person.
“It’s been really fun not only watching the great things he’s done on the field,” Boone said, “but also watching him grow as a player, as a man, as a leader, as a captain, and as a father. He’s well-respected by everyone who comes through that clubhouse. That’s very real.”
Despite individual accolades, Judge remains singularly focused on team success. He reiterated his willingness to forgo personal recognition in exchange for a championship parade down the “Canyon of Heroes.” “We’ll never be satisfied until we go out there and finish it,” Judge asserted. “It doesn’t matter the awards, the MVPs, the All-Star Games… that doesn’t matter. What matters is getting New York back to the top and getting this organization back to where it belongs, which is being the best organization in the game.”
Judge concluded with a clear statement of his commitment to winning. “I have a job to do. I don’t get paid just to play this game. I get paid to win here.” This unwavering dedication underscores his leadership role and sets the tone for the Yankees’ pursuit of a championship in .
