New York Yankees star hitters Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton skipped the World Baseball Classic to devote focus on the upcoming MLB season.
World Baseball Classic (WBC) is a global baseball tournament that takes place after every consecutive four years, and it features some of the best players in the world. The latest edition of the tournament finally took place this year after multiple delays due to the Covid Pandemic. Teams from across the world participated in this global event. Moreover, t is an opportunity for players to represent their country and showcase their skills on a worldwide stage.
However, some notable names of Major League Baseball (MLB) opted out of the tournament, citing loyalty to MLB franchises. The WBC clashes with pre-season spring training, which is a critical time for players to prepare for the regular season. Hence, the New York Yankees’ star hitters, Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, ditched the tournament and instead played in the Grapefruit League. However, their decision has not gone down well with this baseman, which indirectly called them out for the same.
Team USA Baseman Takes A Dig At Players Missing The WBC
Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees captain, declined the opportunity to represent his country, the USA, at the global stage of WBC 2023. He said that his priority is New York for the time being and that WBC can wait as it comes every four years. Furthermore, his pal, Giancarlo Stanton, followed in his footsteps and skipped the tournament citing fitness reasons. Both the hitters felt honored to receive the opportunity but gracefully declined it due to MLB commitments.
However, Nolan Arenado, who is representing Team USA at WBC 2023, has allegedly called out these players for refusing the big opportunity. He feels that the tournament is an opportunity for players to represent their country and compete at the highest level. Hence, Nolan does not understand why anyone would want to miss it. While the baseman did not take any names but considering that Judge and Stanton are the only two big names missing from the tournament, it’s highly likely directed toward them.
Aaron Judge Intends To Recreate Monumental 2022 Season
New York Yankees star outfielder, Aaron Judge, broke all barriers last season by putting up one of the league’s highest numbers. The slugger scripted history with 62 home runs and took home his first AL-MVP award. Meanwhile, with the new season approaching, fans have set realistic expectations from Judge to recreate the last season in 2023.
While the task certainly looks possible, the slugger is up for the challenge. Aaron Judge, in an interview, did not rule out the possibility of having another 62-home run season. While he did not promise anything, he said he would try his best to help the Yankees clinch their 28th World Series title. Moreover, his main goal this season would be to stay healthy and help the Yanks win the long-awaited championship title.