New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge has requirement for Home Run Derby
It is understandable that fans would want to see Aaron Judge in the Home Run Derby. The New York Yankees slugger has been crushing the ball this season, hitting a major league leading 25 homers entering Friday. As he already appears set to be a part of the All Star festivities, he would be right there to participate.
However, Judge has stipulations for being a part of the exhibition. He has said that, if he is going to participate in the Home Run Derby, it would have to take place at Yankee Stadium.
New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge not part of 2022 Home Run Derby
That stipulation makes sense. Players that have been in the Home Run Derby in the past have complained that their swings were off mechanically afterwards, needing time to adjust and return to form. Judge certainly would not want to risk tweaking his swing to hit homers in a different ballpark considering how well he is hitting the ball currently.
He also has far more on his mind than winning an exhibition. Judge is slated to enter free agency after this season and every home run means a larger payday. He has already put together an impressive season before entering the market, with a .310/.386/.677 batting line over his 268 plate appearances along with those 25 homers.
Stating that he would participate only if the Home Run Derby was to be held at Yankee Stadium works for two reasons. First, he would not have to adjust his swing at all if he re-signs with the Yankees and gets that hoped-for extension. Second, if he does leave, it would be a way to treat the fans to another impressive display of power.
Maybe it will happen someday. Major League Baseball wants to have their brightest stars on the biggest stages possible. Likewise, the league wants to celebrate its history as much as possible. Having the All Star festivities at Yankee Stadium would help both of those happen.
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Aaron Judge is not going to be a part of the Home Run Derby this year. However, the New York Yankees slugger would join if it was in his home park.