Aaron Judge finds 2024 ‘worse’ for Yankees compared to ‘bad’ 2023

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Aaron Judge strolled through the Yankees’ spring training complex with a palpable intensity that speaks volumes about his mindset entering the 2025 season. The New York captain, fresh off his second American League MVP award, carries with him the weight of unfinished business after the Yankees’ disappointing five-game defeat to the Los Angeles Dodgers in last year’s World Series.

“I’m always going to be never satisfied,” Judge told YES Network following a recent spring workout. “Until I’m done playing and I give everything to this game, I’m never going to be satisfied.”

Those words encapsulate the 32-year-old slugger’s approach as he leads a Yankees squad determined to capture the franchise’s 28th championship – and their first since 2009.

From historic season to heightened motivation

Judge’s 2024 campaign stands among the most impressive in recent baseball history. The Yankees’ captain slashed his way to a .322 batting average while launching 58 home runs and driving in 144 runs. His MLB-leading 1.159 OPS solidified his second MVP honor, yet the individual accolades provided little consolation after falling short in the Fall Classic.

“2023 left a bad taste in everybody’s mouth, especially not even making the postseason for the first time,” Judge reflected. “And then, you know, going all the way to the dance and not finishing the job definitely left an even worse taste.”

That bitter ending has shaped Judge’s offseason approach. After analyzing his 2024 performance, the Yankees’ franchise cornerstone identified a concerning pattern that he’s determined to address – his traditionally slow starts.

Despite finishing with MVP numbers, Judge struggled through April last season, batting just .197 through the first five weeks. His solution? More spring at-bats.

“If you want to improve your bench press, you do more pushups,” Judge explained with characteristic straightforwardness. “If I want to improve on the season, maybe if I need more (spring) at-bats, it’ll help me throughout the season a little better.”

Leading through adversity

Judge’s leadership will be tested early as the Yankees navigate significant roster challenges. Most notably, the team will begin the season without Giancarlo Stanton, who continues to battle elbow injuries with no clear timetable for return.

“We’ll see what the doctors say about what’s going on. I’ve been checking with him every day, talking to him,” Judge said regarding his teammate’s status. “We went out to dinner. He’s got a positive mindset with everything… I want a healthy G in the middle of the season.”

Stanton’s absence creates opportunities for younger players like Ben Rice, Everson Pereira, and Trent Grisham to contribute in meaningful ways. The Yankees’ depth will be tested early, but Judge’s production becomes even more critical during Stanton’s recovery as the team looks to maintain offensive firepower.

Judge’s heartwarming moment with superfan

Judge’s commitment to improvement extends beyond his preparation at the plate. Team sources indicate he’s taken a more active role in mentoring younger players this spring, particularly outfielders adjusting to the pressures of playing in New York.

The Yankees captain participated in just 27 Grapefruit League plate appearances last spring – his second-fewest since 2015. This year, he’s on pace to nearly double that total while adding additional live batting practice sessions designed to sharpen his timing before Opening Day.

Judge’s methodical approach to improvement has been evident throughout spring training, with his detailed focus on swing mechanics and timing adjustments drawing attention from teammates and coaches alike.

While Judge’s on-field focus remains unwavering, he continues making meaningful connections off the diamond. Recently, Fanatics shared a video capturing the Yankees captain’s interaction with a young fan named Colin through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. During their conversation, Judge promised to send Colin one of the first baseballs he’s ever signed as a “two-time AL MVP.”

“I actually got something I’m going to send to you,” Judge told Colin. “You’re going to be getting one of the first two-time AL MVP balls I’ve ever signed.”

Championship expectations

The Yankees enter 2025 as consensus favorites in the American League despite significant roster turnover. Following their World Series appearance, the organization made strategic adjustments while maintaining its core talent.

Judge’s leadership philosophy centers on embracing the pressures that come with wearing pinstripes rather than shying away from them.

Judge has been candid about his expectations, firmly stating that winning is the only acceptable outcome. He acknowledged the inherent pressure that comes with playing in New York but emphasized that he places even higher demands on himself. The Yankees captain expressed that whenever he steps onto the field, his sole expectation is victory.

With Opening Day approaching on March 27 against Milwaukee, Judge has shifted from reflection to action. His teammates have noticed his intensified focus during drills and cage work, with several commenting on his meticulous preparation and leadership by example.

The Yankees’ clubhouse atmosphere reflects Judge’s championship mindset, with veterans and rookies alike embracing the heightened expectations for 2025.

For Judge, the equation is simple – individual excellence means little without championship results. As he enters his prime years with undiminished power and growing wisdom, the Yankees captain has his sights set on transforming last year’s heartbreak into this year’s triumph.

“Excited about the team. We got a good group here that’s motivated and excited to be back,” Judge said. “It’s a lot of guys that wanted to be here in New York and wanted to play for the Yankees.”

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