Is Aaron Judge leaving New York Yankees? The 4-Time All-Star Open For Mid-Season Contract Extention Discussions With New York!

The New York Yankees found themselves in a tough spot at the end of the Opening Day deadline after failing to convince Aaron Judge to sign an extension deal. The Bombers offered a seven-year, $30.5m per year salary to Judge. However, the two-time Silver Slugger demanded a $36m per annum salary, equivalent to position player Mike Trout\’s income. The Yankees tried to offer a little extra above their proposed deal. However, Judge had made up his mind and decided to test the free agency water, with his contract ending at the end of the season. 

The 2017 AL Rookie of the Year suggested that the negotiation with the Bombers would halt after the Opening day. Moreover, with the form Aaron has shown this season, he will likely get his desired salary and maybe more in the free agency. But it seems like Judge still wants to be a Yankee, considering the dominant run they have this season with a 61-25 record. Although the Yankees\’ right fielder has struggled a bit during the last month. Judge\’s average has reduced from. 318 to .283. 

Not just that, the 30-year-old\’s OPS has dropped from 1.077 to .971. His OPS this season was moving towards the north of 200. But now, it has dropped to 175. However, Aaron Judge is still putting All-Star numbers as he leads the league in highest runs scored, home runs, and total bases. But still, the right fielder has seen some humble dip in form in recent times. And this could be the reason why he agreed to discuss his future with the Yankees during the season.

Judge Gives Way For In-Season Contract Extension Negotiations

Aaron Judge is a major personality in baseball whose charm goes beyond the field. His larger-than-life personality has made him a major marketing asset for the Yankees, selling tickets and merchandise, generating viewership, and attracting endorsements. Thus, as long as Judge is healthy and keeps performing like an MVP, his desired salary figure may not reduce much, despite a recent dip. The kind of impact Aaron has on the field is well recognized by all teams. But, the 30-year-old has opened the door slightly for the Yankees to work out a favorable deal. 

Moreover, Aaron Judge received the highest All-Star votes. He will start in the right field for the American League in the All-Star Game next week. He is currently sixth among all MLB position players with a WAR of 3.8. Thus, if the Yankees and Aaron Judge agree, they will have a chance of winning the World Series together.