Aaron Judge Speaks Out

Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees star, put on his Team USA jersey for the first time Monday, and it was a big deal – especially with the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

As the three-time American League MVP and captain of Team USA, Judge is set to lead his team in the World Baseball Classic, which starts Thursday and runs through March 17.

A Time for Reflection

Judge took a moment to reflect on the situation, saying, “There’s a lot of crazy stuff going on in the world right now… I’m just grateful every day I get to come out here, play the game I love, have my family close, and be with these great guys.”

When he put on the jersey, Judge said it really hit him – he thought about all the people who have served in the military, allowing him to play the game he loves while keeping his family safe at home.

Team USA’s Chances

Team USA is looking strong, with a young and talented pitching staff, including last year’s Cy Young Award winners Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes.

The team’s manager, Mark DeRosa, shared a story about recruiting Skenes, who said he wanted to play for Team USA to honor every man and woman in service who protects our freedom.

A Star-Studded Lineup

The possible starting lineup is packed with power, featuring veterans like Bryce Harper, Judge, and Kyle Schwarber, as well as young talent like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Bobby Witt Jr.