What will happen at the showdown between the New York Yankees and Kansas City Royals? The Royals have been a formidable team this season, and the way they managed the wildcard sweep against the Orioles is a testament to their power. On the other hand, the Yanks will be banking on their star players Aaron Judge and Juan Soto to carry the team forward. Both power players have been a force to be reckoned with—the duo is even getting compared to Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Moreover, Judge is having a historic season this time around.

But All-Rise isn’t letting his historic numbers define him. Sure, the 58 homers and 144 RBIs are huge, but he isn’t letting it get to his head. Standing in a champagne-drenched clubhouse after the Yanks clinched the AL East, he recalled 2017 – the year he was just a rookie, but was one win away from the World Series. And since then, he was expected to be in that position, chasing that prize. Judge regretted not being able to stand tall every time.

All eyes are on Aaron Judge – will he finally deliver in the postseason?

The New York Yankees haven’t been the closest to winning the ultimate since 2017. Aaron Judge in October is a different story – do you remember last year’s ALDS? Just after smashing a 62nd home run, Judge had to face boos from the crowd as he went 0-for-8 with seven strikeouts. It’s not difficult to get past such tragic incidents, but this time, Judge is optimistic about changing the narrative in October.

Aaron Judge mentioned that not finishing the job eats at him, with guilt in his mind, he said, “I take a lot of responsibility for that, being on the team, and if we don’t win it all, I feel like it’s my fault.” But many are doubting if he can do it – Judge’s postseason stats haven’t been the best, hitting just 211 over six playoff runs. But sure, he is aware, and seems more confident to make it this time, considering he has the support of Juan Soto behind him. Judge knows that with the Royals affront, the stakes are high and no slumps can be afforded in October for the team.

Judge is also optimistic about the entire chemistry and mindset at the Yankees clubhouse. “We’ve got a good group of guys in here,” he said. Even the team manager Aaron Boone mentioned: “I think the guys are ready. I think they’re really focused; I think they’re really hungry, and we’re excited to take our shot.” It seems like the Yankees are excited to hit the mound and show others that they, too, are capable of winning the ring.

Juan Soto is up for a milestone achievement soon

Aaron Judge and the Yankees have a splendid chance this year to break their championship slump. Judge has firm backing from Juan Soto; plus, with just seven years left to his contract and Juan’s free agency, this might be his only opportunity to bring home a title. As for Soto, Game 1 of the American League Division Series is a milestone event in his career. It will be his first postseason debut, wearing pinstripes against the Kansas City Royals, and his third playoff appearance. With a relatively short career still, and at just 25—that’s one rare achievement.

Soto first burst into the scene in 2018 with the Washington Nationals. There, he became a key figure for the team’s run for their first World Series the following year. Then, he had a stint with the San Diego Padres, where he played in the postseason in 2022. Juan Soto was traded to the Yankees in 2024 for a $31 million deal, and so far, it’s been it’s been a great pairing.

Teaming up with Judge, Juan Soto has made waves, reminding everyone of the iconic pair of Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. When asked about what’s been like having Soto on the team, Aaron Judge noted, “Definably been a treat, excited to see what he does in the postseason.” Well, the spotlight is going to be on Soto’s postseason, and Brian Cashman seems to have complete faith in him. “He came as advertised. He was brought in to improve our chances, and he’s certainly improved our chances, without a doubt,” said Cashman. As far as Soto is concerned, he says he is enjoying his time with the Yankees.

Juan Soto will turn 26 in about three weeks and has a colorful resume already being with three teams postseason. He is confident for the future, as he claimed, “I’ve got to make sure we win it.” So, do you think the Yankees will be able to win it this time? Let us know your thoughts below.