Aaron Judge vividly recalls the moment he reflected on his place in baseball during the World Baseball Classic, 2023. At home, while grappling with the flurry of free agency, he was watching Team USA’s performance on screen. The sounds of the crowd filtering through the speakers, and the atmosphere filled with energy and adrenaline stirred something deep within him. It was a feeling he couldn’t shake off–a feeling that he belonged on the diamond, wearing the iconic white and blue colors.

Fast forward three years, and Judge isn’t just joining Team USA’s 2026 WBC roster—he’s leading it as captain. With Mike Trout passing down the mantle, it’s now Judge’s turn to lead. This isn’t just a PR move or casual commitment—it’s deeply personal. For the New York Yankees captain, the WBC represents something bigger than baseball: pride, identity, and a chance to honor the people and principles that shaped him.

“Every game during the National Anthem, during ‘God Bless America,’ I reflect on the brave men and women who fought for this country,” Judge said on MLB Central. “They’ve given me the chance to do what I love—to play baseball. Wearing ‘USA’ across my chest is about honoring them. This opportunity means everything.”

When Aaron Judge takes the field for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic tournament he will be following the example set by a Yankees legend. Derek Jeter, who led the Yankees from 2003, to 2014. Although Jeter brought his trademark composure and professionalism to the team, unfortunately they couldn’t clinch victory in either competition, getting knocked out in the second round in 2006 and making it to the semifinals in 2009. Still he really made a difference by boosting the tournament’s reputation and paving the way for upcoming talent to shine in the future.

Now Judge joins the club of Yankees captains who have proudly sported the national team colors, showcasing his leadership qualities and his commitment not just to the Yankees, but to the sport itself on a global stage.

But for Judge, donning the red, white, and blue isn’t just about legacy—it’s about respect. And not just from fans in the stands, but from the players who lace up their cleats beside him. Moments like that mean everything to Judge. It’s one thing to have fans in your corner; it’s another to have the respect of your peers, Judge said. “Recognition from guys who go through the same grind, who know what it takes. It means more.”

Why Judge skipped the WBC and why he’s all in now?

In a moment of rare candor, Aaron Judge opened up about his decision to skip the 2023 World Baseball Classic and it all came down to timing. Judge explained that if he had signed with the Giants, or another team, his priority would have been building relationships with his new teammates and coaches. Getting acclimated to a new organization, he felt, was more important at the time than spending four weeks away with Team USA. At the time, the Yankees’ slugger was deep in free agency talks, nearly jumping ship to the San Francisco Giants or San Diego Padres. The uncertainty made it hard to commit to anything but his next move.

But things are different now. Judge has stability, clarity, and unfinished business. He admitted watching Team USA fall just short of its goal in 2023 sparked something deeper. That missed opportunity stuck with him—and now, he’s ready to rewrite the ending. “I’ll be here for quite a long time,” Judge said with a smile, confirming his 2026 WBC commitment.

In the end, there’s no free agency, no distractions—just one mission: bringing glory back home.