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via Getty

via Getty

Aaron Judge is one of the biggest names in the game nowadays. No doubt about that! The phenomenal slugger is paving his way to Cooperstown in a fashion that will be forever etched in the archives of baseball history. With a stunning last season, marked by 62 home runs, the expectations from the New York Yankees captain have been soaring above the clouds. 

Now the burning question on everybody’s minds is whether Judge, who signed a $360 million deal, can replicate the incredible feats of his previous campaign. However, yet another question that has been puzzling the minds of fans is the secret to his resolute composure, both on and off the field. As it turns out, the answer lies in an unexpected source. The NBA legend Michael Jordan and the iconic quarterback, Peyton Manning

Here’s how MJ and Peyton Manning indirectly played a huge role in Aaron Judge’s success

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Aaron Judge is not just a brawny behemoth, but also a mentally tough athlete who has honed his skills through unconventional means. With the help of Chad Bohling, the mental conditioning coach of the team, the outfielder has developed a pre-game ritual that has now become a vital part of his routine. 

A refreshing interview with ESPN revealed that before every game, just before the first pitch, Judge sneaks into Bohling’s office to watch a series of motivational videos featuring positive imagery, including his own successful performances, as well as clips of sports legends like Michael Jordan and Peyton Manning. By visualizing these positive images, Judge primes his mind for the game and maintains a positive and focused mindset in the ballpark. 

READ MORE: Captain Aaron Judge’s Unique Vibrating Device is a Big Hit in the New York Yankees Clubhouse

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It’s not your typical pre-game preparation but hey, what works, works right? Balancing brain with brawn is not an easy feat, but Aaron Judge has achieved it certainly in an unconventional way.

The captain certainly is a leader! 

Aaron Judge is showing no signs of slowing down after his incredible performance last year. The Pinstripes captain made a statement right out of the gate, hitting a homer in his very first at-bat and racking up an impressive six more hits over the opening weekend. 

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But as any athlete knows, it takes more than just physical skills to display excellence in high-pressure environments. With thousands of fans watching and teammates counting on him to make game-changing plays, Judge’s mental fortitude needs to be solid as a boulder. Judge has a mental game that doesn’t waver for a heartbeat, a feat he has honed through his unfaltering routine. 

WATCH THIS STORY:  Is Aaron Judge’s $360 Million Deal the Biggest New York Yankees Contract of All Time?