via Getty
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 23: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees looks on during the sixth inning against the Houston Astros in game four of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium on October 23, 2022 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
via Getty
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – OCTOBER 23: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees looks on during the sixth inning against the Houston Astros in game four of the American League Championship Series at Yankee Stadium on October 23, 2022 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
With the World Baseball Classic less than a month away, many MLB stars are gearing up to represent their home nations on the biggest stage. But one superstar that won’t be suiting up is Aaron Judge. The New York Yankees star will not be participating in the WBC this time around. Although many fans were looking forward to seeing him play.
The Yankees’ star outfielder is coming off a career year in 2022. But that may have something to do with his absence from the WBC. Judge recently opened up on his reasoning for missing the WBC and why he’s not representing Team USA.
Aaron Judge wants to focus on his season with the New York Yankees
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Many have wondered why Aaron Judge isn’t playing in the World Baseball Classic. The New York Yankees star recently commented on his reasoning while conversing with Fox Sports. Judge said that he wanted to focus on bringing a championship to New York. Taking to Twitter, Fox Sports informed the same.
Aaron Judge would be honored to play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic. But his priorities changed after signing his nine-year deal with the Yankees.
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) February 21, 2023
According to Fox Sports’ Deesha Thosar, Judge said, “It would be an honor to represent my country and play in that. But my main goal is what I can do here in New York and what I can do to bring a championship back here. I think especially after signing a nine-year contract, for me, priorities are New York.” He also wants to work with the Yankee’s young prospects and help them grow.
Fans have shared their opinions on the news, and the reactions were mostly negative. Most fans were unhappy and took digs at Judge for not representing Team USA. But some fans did agree with Judge’s decision, stating that he made the right choice.
Bc he can't show up in big stages
— Justin Durbin (@durbin85) February 21, 2023
Scared to play in the big stage
— Masterrighthand (@masterrighthand) February 21, 2023
He doesn’t like winning
— Isaac Lozano (@IsaacLozanoCha1) February 22, 2023
Finally gets the chance to play for a championship and he chose money instead. Sad.
— Justin (@realJustinSerna) February 22, 2023
Lights too bright
— wallace (@BryceYung9) February 21, 2023
Because a World Series is more important.
— Mo Leland (@MoLeland42069) February 21, 2023
Should be obvious! I wouldn’t play in it either if I was him.
— M Stellar 🦅 🇺🇸 (@HydeStellar) February 22, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
But despite Judge missing the Classic, Team USA has several stars suiting up for them, such as Mike Trout and Mookie Betts. Furthermore, there is a silver lining for fans who want to see him play at a World Baseball Classic.
Judge may play the World Baseball Classic in the future
Despite the fact that Aaron Judge is not playing in the World Baseball Classic, his fans need not worry. The Yankees star has kept the door open for a future appearance. He has stated that a few years down the line, he would be open to representing Team USA.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story: 5 Intense Workouts That Make Aaron Judge an Absolute Giant in the MLB
It will be interesting to see how the United States fairs without Judge. But the Yankees captain will be focused on the upcoming season. What do you think about Aaron Judge’s reasoning for missing the World Baseball Classic? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
