It’s not for nothing that Aaron Judge was named captain of the New York Yankees, a first since the Derek Jeter era.
Both on the field and outside the stadium, the Judge embodies class and humility in addition to bringing a lot of leadership. This is not given to everyone.
The fact that the flying giant took the young Anthony Volpe under his wing is further blatant proof of this.
When Judge first arrived in the Majors in 2016, Brett Gardner quickly became something of a mentor to him, even inviting him to live at his home in upstate New York while Judge was staying in a downtown Manhattan hotel.
He wants to replicate that kind of mentorship with Volpe.
I just want him to feel comfortable. I have to get closer to him. I have to get to know him. I have to make him feel welcome. I have to do everything I can and be a resource he can lean on and confide in. We are a team. We are all in the same boat.
And these are not just empty words. The day before the 2023 campaign opener, Volpe was at an upscale Manhattan costume store, wanting to restock his wardrobe for his first road trips.
While doing his fittings, he noticed the tailor making several phone calls. Then when it was time to pay, the tailor told him to put his wallet away. The Judge had already paid the bill.
The 21-year-old was surprised, but greatly appreciated the gesture.
It’s something personal that sticks with you forever.
This small gesture is already making its way to Volpe since he said he hopes to repeat what Judge has done for him to the next prospects who will arrive in the organization.
That’s who Aaron Judge really is.
