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Anthony Rizzo and his pup played a crucial role in convincing New York Yankees’ Aaron Judge to re-sign with the team. Rizzo’s constant sharing of pictures of their dogs playing together may have been just the push that Judge needed to make his decision. 

It is common knowledge that for Aaron Judge, Penny, his pup, is more than just a pet. She is a source of warmth and joy in his life. And thanks to Rizzo, Judge’s dog might have played a significant role in his extension with the Yanks. So, recently, the 16th captain of the New York Yankees, Judge, shared a heartwarming moment with Penny.

Aaron Judge and his unconditional love for his pet Penny

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Aaron Judge, the towering 16th captain of the Yankees, is not just a fierce athlete on the field, but also a devoted pet owner. His loyal companion, Penny, a little “blonde” pup, is more than just a pet to him. She is a “little piece of his heart,” as he shared in an interview with Jimmy Fallon

Recently, Judge posted a picture of the two of them on a cafe outing together. Penny sat dutifully under the table, her big puppy eyes gazing up at her beloved owner. Aaron, in turn, was looking down at her with a tenderness that belied his daunting stature. This picture was an adorable reminder that even the most formidable athletes in the world have a soft spot for their little pups. 

READ MORE: “He Went For My Heart”- Aaron Judge Credits Star Teammate For Bringing in Their Dogs to Have Him Stay With the New York Yankees

It’s not every day that we get to see such candid and heartwarming moments between athletes and their pets. It’s this kind of relationship that has endeared Judge to the hearts of not just Yankees fans but also the general public. Making him not just a phenomenal athlete but also a humanized version of the star we all look up to.

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How did Anthony Rizzo convince Aaron Judge to re-sign with the Yankees?

As the free agency period loomed, Aaron Judge found himself at a crossroads contemplating his next move. Little did he know, his friend and teammate, Anthony Rizzo, had already made his decision to bring him along for the ride. 

He employed a devious but effective tactic to lure Aaron back to the team. He began sending pictures of their beloved pups, Kevin and Penny, playing together every day. The bond between the two dogs was just too strong to ignore. Finally, he caved and re-signed with the Yankees, unable to bear the thought of Kevin and Penny being apart.

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While there were certainly other reasons that influenced his decision, such as his deep-seated connection to the team, the bond between the two dogs played a pivotal role in his ultimate choice.

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