With 27 World Championship rings, the New York Yankees single-handedly stand as the most successful franchise in American sports. But, their already 13-year-long absence from the postseason display another story. As a result, the Pinstripes were forced to make a massive change, and bring the face of the franchise, Aaron Judge, to the helm, replacing five-time World Champion, and universally loved Derek Jeter as the New York Yankees captain for the first time in eight years.

As the opening day comes close, Aaron Judge, who broke Roger Maris’ 61 single-season home run record in 2022, and was named the American League MVP, prepares for a brand new challenge as the leader of the glorious Yankees. And as per a recent press conference, the new captain looks nothing but ready to take on this responsibility.

Aaron Judge is ready to bring the ring back home

In the press conference, Judge received a question about his plans on leading the Yankees throughout 2023. His response was candid and simple, where he spoke about how he’d change nothing about his everyday game, and just try to lead by example. He emphasized his “unfinished business” which was also the reason behind his return to the Big Apple.

Judge said, “I’ll be doing what I’ve been doing the past six or seven years. I try to lead by example, be a voice for this team on and off the field. And, keep pushing this team to the ultimate goal, and bring the championship back to New York. That’s why I’m here, one of the main reasons why I wanted to come back wear Pinstripes. There’s a lot of unfinished business here, so looking forward to this new role.”

Read More: “Yankees…Without Aaron Judge”- Red Sox Legend David Ortiz Once Again Stands Up for the New York Yankees Captain Owing to Fan Heckling

He continued to add, “But I don’t think a lot. Stuff doesn’t change for me. It got me in this position. And I just got to keep focusing on that and keep pushing forward.”

After eight long years, The Judge takes the reigns

In 2004, eight seasons after Don Mattingly retired, Derek Jeter was named as the next Yankees captain. Following his ten-year-long tenure and retirement, the Yankees went captainless for another eight seasons, before they made the expected and unanimous decision to name Aaron Judge as their captain. Jeter, when asked about this change, expressed that he was extremely content with handing over the torch to Judge, and believed in his ability as a leader.

Do you think Aaron Judge will lead the New York Yankees to their first World Series ring in 13 years? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

WATCH THIS STORY – 5 Intense Workouts That Make Aaron Judge an Absolute Giant in the MLB