It’s been the same story for years now. Aaron Judge may be the most prolific home run hitter we've seen in decades , but the New York Yankees slugger is not interested in participating in the Home Run Derby -- unless the event comes to Yankee Stadium.
Newsday beat writer Erik Boland confirmed Judge’s stance on Thursday as All-Star voting began.
“Same answer,” Judge told Boland when asked if he’d participate in the 2025 Derby.
Judge’s reluctance isn’t new, and it's based on a selfless reason.
He won the 2017 Home Run Derby in Miami, but since then, he’s chosen to skip the event to focus on staying fresh for the regular season. Following that 2017 Home Run Derby win, Judge acknowledged it exacerbated a shoulder injury he suffered crashing into the wall a few weeks earlier. He needed surgery on the shoulder after the season.
Participating in the Derby can add extra wear and tear in the middle of a grueling schedule. For Judge, it’s about protecting his body and prioritizing the team’s success over personal accolades.
This decision feeds into his reputation as a no-nonsense player who puts the Yankees first. Remember, in 2023, Judge declined an invite to play for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic because it was the first year of his new contract with the Yankees, and he didn't think it would be fair to take away from the team.
This year, however, Judge has announced he will captain Team USA in 2026.
While fans may wish to see him swing for the fences in the Derby, Judge has not changed his mind.
