All-Star voting begins for 2025, but don’t expect Aaron Judge in the Home Run Derby. The Yankees captain maintains his familiar stance against participating in baseball’s midsummer power showcase.
Judge ranks third among MLB home run leaders entering June. His answer about Derby participation remains unchanged from previous years. When reporters pressed him this week about the 2025 event, his response was brief.
“Same answer,” he told Newsday’s Erik Boland.
Not that it's a surprise and it's been the case since 2018: Aaron Judge is "no" for this year's HR Derby. “Same answer," he said. Meaning, the only time he'll do another Derby is if it's at Yankee Stadium.
Judge’s position stems from his 2017 Derby victory in Miami. The rookie sensation won the competition but paid a price afterward. His shoulder injury, sustained weeks earlier during a wall collision, deteriorated during the event.
The injury required offseason surgery. That experience taught Judge valuable lessons about risk management during his career.
The Derby performance was spectacular and memorable. The physical cost proved too high for Judge’s long-term planning. He now prioritizes season-long health over All-Star weekend entertainment.
Team priorities take precedence
Yankees
Judge’s Derby refusal actually enhances his standing with Yankees supporters. He consistently chooses team success over individual recognition. This approach became evident in 2023 when he declined Team USA’s World Baseball Classic invitation.
That decision coincided with his nine-year, $360 million Yankees extension. Judge wanted to focus entirely on his club responsibilities during the contract’s first season.
Judge has previously explained that his decision centers on staying healthy. He has indicated he would consider participating only if the Derby comes to Yankee Stadium.
No announcement exists regarding the 2026 Derby location. Yankees fans must wait for Judge’s power display during actual games rather than All-Star festivities.
Bigger picture motivates decision
Judge’s choice reflects serious championship ambitions. The Yankees compete atop the AL standings while he produces MVP-level statistics. Avoiding unnecessary physical stress makes strategic sense.
His shoulder concerns from 2017 provide ongoing motivation. Judge learned that Derby swings differ from game situations. The repetitive motion and competitive pressure can strain muscles differently.
The Yankees need Judge healthy for October baseball. His Derby absence protects their postseason hopes more than any All-Star weekend appearance could benefit them.
Leadership without spotlight
NYY
Judge remains baseball’s most marketable star despite skipping Derby events. His towering home runs speak louder than any exhibition performance could. His quiet leadership style resonates throughout the Yankees clubhouse.
Fans appreciate his consistency and commitment to winning. Judge’s regular-season dominance provides sufficient entertainment value. His focus on team goals over personal accolades strengthens his captain credentials.
The Yankees benefit from Judge’s health-first approach. His durability throughout lengthy seasons enables their championship pursuits. Derby’s participation would risk the availability for minimal reward.
Focus remains on championships
Judge’s decision demonstrates mature leadership and championship priorities. He understands that individual awards mean little without team success. His Derby stance protects the Yankees’ most valuable asset.
The AL playoff race intensifies throughout the summer. Judge’s presence in the Yankees lineup carries more significance than any All-Star weekend exhibition. His power numbers will continue climbing through regular games.
Yankees supporters prefer Judge’s conservative approach. They want him fresh for September and October baseball. His Derby absence ensures maximum availability when games matter most.
