Aaron Judge could easily take it slow during spring training, but that’s not his style. Instead, the Yankees’ captain is pushing himself ahead of the team’s March 27 opener against the Milwaukee Brewers. Judge made his long-awaited spring debut on Saturday, delivering a two-run single in a 9-3 win over the Houston Astros. The reigning AL MVP has set a goal of 40 to 50 at-bats this spring.
Last year, Judge had just 24 spring at-bats and struggled early in the season, hitting .207 with six home runs and 18 RBI in the Yankees’ first 31 games. He believes a heavier workload could help him start stronger in 2024. “So, if I want to improve on the season, maybe I need more at-bats,” Judge said, per the Yankees’ official website.
It’s rare for a veteran of Judge’s caliber—turning 33 in April—to push for so much spring action. Most established stars settle for 25 to 30 at-bats. But after hitting a career-best .322 with 58 home runs, 144 RBI, and a 1.159 OPS last season, Judge is still looking for ways to improve.
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However, the Yankees need to be cautious. Giancarlo Stanton (elbow) will start the season on the injured list, and DJ LeMahieu (calf) might join him. The team is already down two key hitters, and Rookie of the Year Luis Gil recently suffered a shoulder injury.
Judge clarified that his at-bat count includes backfield games, meaning he won’t be in the lineup every day. Still, with so much riding on his health, the Yankees must decide how much to let their captain push himself this spring.
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