Aaron Boone Supports Aaron Judge in WBC Role
Aaron Boone seems unconcerned about whether his opinion on Aaron Judge’s role in the 2026 World Baseball Classic is “politically correct.”
During an episode of YES Network’s “Yankees Hot Stove,” announcer Michael Kay asked Boone how he felt about Judge heading Team USA. His response? Not worried at all.
“I’m actually excited for Aaron,” Boone said, chuckling. He pointed out that Judge had to sit out the previous tournament after signing a nine-year deal with the Yankees. “I’m thrilled for him because he missed out last time when he was named captain.”
Boone continued, “A player like Judge—his size and talent—he’s possibly the most popular player we’ve seen participate in this event. Last time was truly something special.”
Judge, who is 33, was officially named Team USA captain back in April and was visibly happy to represent the country.
“It’s an incredible opportunity. Representing this country means everything to me,” Judge expressed at the time. “Since I was a kid, I’ve always wanted a chance like this.”
This season, Judge didn’t disappoint as he delivered another remarkable performance, hitting over 50 home runs for the fourth time, boasting a .331 batting average, and clinching his third American League MVP award along with his first batting title.
However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. He faced a right elbow injury in July, which landed him on the disabled list and impacted his pitching capabilities for the remainder of the year.
Injuries during the tournament, such as Edwin Diaz’s season-ending knee injury in 2023 and a broken hand incident for Jose Altuve, have raised concerns among fans and players alike.
Judge isn’t alone in wearing the Team USA jersey. Yankees closer David Bednar has signed up, and there are possibilities for Jazz Chisholm Jr. (Great Britain), Austin Wells (Dominican Republic), Fernando Cruz (Puerto Rico), and Jose Caballero (Panama).
Despite the specter of injuries, Boone emphasized that the WBC holds significant value for the sport.
“High-stakes baseball so early in the year can be worrisome,” Boone acknowledged. “But this has become an integral part of our game. We can just do our best to ensure everyone is in a safe position to play.”
“Injuries happen, whether in sports or life. We’d wish they could be avoided, but that’s not a guarantee,” he added.
Judge’s team, which includes 2025 AL MVP runner-up Cal Lowry along with Cy Young Award winners Tariq Skubal and Paul Skeens, is aiming for Team USA’s first WBC title since 2017.
And Boone is confident in Judge’s leadership. “Having Aaron Judge as the U.S. team captain is absolutely the right choice,” he remarked. “I can’t wait to see him thrive in that setting, and I’m hopeful he’ll be back shortly.”
The tournament is set to kick off on March 5th.
