New York Yankees have been playing without a captain since 2014. Former Yankee legend Derek Jeter held that position until his retirement in 2014. Ever since the Yankees decided not to appoint a captain until they found someone worthy of that role. However, it looks like the Yanks will finally have a leader in the 2023 season.
The Bronx Bombers re-signed Aaron Judge in a nine-year contract worth $360 million this off-season after a lengthy trade drama. Subsequently, the Yankees announced that Aaron would be leading the club in the 2023 MLB season and beyond. Aaron Judge will be the 16th player to hold the captaincy badge in the history of the New York Yankees. However, fans are puzzled over whether or not Aaron will don the “C” badge on his pinstripes.
Will Aaron Judge Wear The “C” Logo On His Pinstripes?
Aaron Judge’s return was monumental for the New York Yankees as he has been the star of the club for some time now. Aaron, in 2022, broke the all-time record for most home runs in a single MLB season. He scored a total of 62 home runs, breaking the all-time record of 61. Moreover, the slugger played a crucial role in the team’s success. However, the club’s failure to win a championship title has irked the slugger. Nonetheless, Hal Steinbrenner managed to keep Aaron in the fold.
Meanwhile, to further honor the slugger, Hal, in the presence of Boone and Cashman, announced the appointment of Aaron Judge as the captain of the Yankees bullpen. Recently, Judge appeared in front of the media and answered the most intriguing question. Bryan Hoch of MLB.com asked Aaron if he would don the “C” badge on his pinstripe jersey. To this, Aaron Judge chuckled and said upright, No. He said they do not have such a tradition in the Yankees to differentiate the captain from the rest of the lineup.
“No, we don’t do that here,” said Aaron Judge
Will The Yankees Fate Change Under Aaron’s Leadership?
All said and done, but the main question still remains. Will the New York Yankees finally manage to win a championship title after 13 long years under Aaron Judge leadership? Well, there is no straightforward answer to that. While many have predicted that the Bombers will cross the finish line this time around, but the club still has many concerns left to attend.
For starters, the Bombers are going into spring training without a left-field option. Moreover, injuries have started to come in even before the season begins. Frankie Montas is all set to miss the first month due to recurring shoulder niggle. Also, keeping the starting roster healthy for the entire season is a task in itself. And not to forget the arch nemesis, Houston Astros, who always have blocked the Yank’s way. Hence, the Bombers have much to figure out before the opening day of the 2023 season.