New York Yankees MVP, Aaron Judge

Aaron Judge | Biography

Baseball outfielder

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : February 18, 2025

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Who is Aaron Judge?

Aaron Judge is a professional baseball outfielder for the New York Yankees, where he has played since 2016. Standing at an imposing 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 282 pounds, Judge is one of the largest athletes in Major League Baseball history. Born on April 26, 1992, in Linden, California, he was adopted by Wayne and Patty Judge the day after his birth. From an early age, Judge displayed exceptional athletic prowess, emerging as a three-sport star in high school, excelling in football, basketball, and baseball before ultimately choosing to pursue baseball at California State University, Fresno.

Judge’s professional career took off when he was selected by the Yankees as the 32nd overall pick in the 2013 MLB Draft. His rookie season in 2017 was historic; he smashed an American League record with 52 home runs and earned unanimous AL Rookie of the Year honors. Renowned for his power-hitting ability, Judge also made headlines in 2022 by hitting a record-breaking 62 home runs, setting a new standard in the American League. His accolades include multiple All-Star selections and two AL MVP Awards, marking his place among the New York Yankees legends, such as Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle.

Despite facing injuries throughout his career, Judge's resilience and talent have kept him in the spotlight. Off the field, he is deeply committed to philanthropy through his ALL RISE Foundation, which focuses on helping children and fostering responsible citizenship. Recently, Judge has also grown his presence in popular culture, featuring as a cartoon character in children’s shows. He is not only a celebrated athlete but also a dedicated family man, married to his high school sweetheart, Samantha Bracksieck, with whom he shares a love for animals, particularly their two dachshunds.

Early Life and Education

Aaron James Judge was born on April 26, 1992, in Linden, California, and was adopted by Wayne and Patty Judge the day after his birth. While his biological parents and ethnic background remain publicly unknown, Judge has expressed pride in his biracial heritage. Growing up in a supportive household alongside his adopted brother, John, Judge developed a strong foundation that encouraged his extraordinary athletic talents. As a child in the small town of Linden, he stood out for his impressive size and abilities, which foreshadowed his future success in professional baseball.

Judge attended Linden High School, where he excelled in multiple sports, emerging as a three-sport star. He notched impressive records in football, basketball, and baseball during his senior year, earning accolades that included 17 touchdowns and a .500 batting average. Despite being drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the 31st round of the 2010 MLB Draft, he opted to pursue higher education at California State University, Fresno. At Fresno State, Judge thrived on the baseball diamond, showcasing his potential as a power hitter and eventually preparing himself for a career in Major League Baseball.

Baseball Career: College to the New York Yankees

Aaron Judge began his baseball journey at California State University, Fresno, after being selected in the 31st round of the 2010 MLB draft by the Oakland Athletics. Choosing to hone his skills in college, he made an immediate impact, earning All-Western Athletic Conference honors in both his freshman and sophomore years. Despite only hitting six home runs during these early seasons, Judge's potential shone through during the prestigious Cape Cod League, where his impressive power was on full display, culminating in a triumph at the TD Ameritrade College Baseball Home Run Derby.

Drafted by the New York Yankees as the 32nd overall pick in the 2013 MLB draft, Judge signed with the team for a $1.8 million bonus. In his first professional season, injuries kept him sidelined, but he quickly recovered, making waves in the minor leagues. By 2015, Judge showcased his talent at the All-Star Futures Game, leading him to join the Yankees in 2016. His debut was remarkable, hitting home runs in his first two games, despite facing challenges in his initial season. Judge flourished in 2017, breaking the rookie record with 52 home runs and earning the American League Rookie of the Year award, solidifying his position as one of the game’s brightest stars.

MLB Draft and Minor Leagues

Aaron Judge's journey in professional baseball began when he was selected as the 32nd overall pick in the 2013 MLB Draft by the New York Yankees. The Yankees recognized Judge's immense potential and backed it with a lucrative signing bonus of $1.8 million. However, an unfortunate quadriceps injury sidelined him for the remainder of the 2013 season. Nevertheless, Judge bounced back in the subsequent year, showcasing his talents in the lower levels of the Yankees minor league system, where he quickly made a name for himself with solid performances.

By the end of the 2014 season, Judge participated in the All-Star Futures Game, highlighting his status as one of the Yankees' top prospects. His time in the minor leagues continued to be fruitful; in 2015, Judge's performance for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders culminated in a stellar batting average of .270, along with 19 home runs over just 93 games. This impressive showing paved the way for his call-up to the Yankees in August 2016, where he made an immediate impact despite a challenging adjustment period. Judge's time in the minor leagues not only honed his skills but also set the stage for his future as a powerhouse hitter in Major League Baseball.

New York Yankees

Aaron Judge is a prominent outfielder for the New York Yankees, having made his MLB debut in 2016. Known for his incredible size and strength, standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 282 pounds, Judge quickly became a sensation in the league. His rookie season was nothing short of extraordinary, setting a new record for home runs by a rookie with 52 in 2017. The fans embraced him wholeheartedly, creating a special seating section in Yankee Stadium known as “Judge’s Chambers” to honor his contributions to the team.

Beyond his physical prowess, Judge exhibits remarkable talent and determination. He has been selected as an All-Star six times and was awarded the American League MVP twice, solidifying his status as one of the elite players in baseball history. In 2024, Judge’s performance helped lead the Yankees to the World Series, showcasing not just his batting abilities but also his defensive efforts on the field. Off the diamond, he is dedicated to community service through his ALL RISE Foundation, which encourages youth to become responsible citizens, demonstrating that his impact extends well beyond the baseball field.

All-Star and Overcoming Injuries

Aaron Judge's journey as a New York Yankee has been marked by incredible highs and challenging lows, particularly when it comes to injuries. Following a stellar rookie season in 2017, where he established himself as a fan favorite and All-Star, Judge faced a series of setbacks that tested his resilience. In 2018, he made his second consecutive All-Star appearance but suffered a fractured wrist after being hit by a pitch, forcing him to miss significant time. Despite this adversity, Judge's determination to return and contribute to his team never wavered, underscoring his role as both a power hitter and prominent team player.

In 2019, though limited by a left oblique strain, Judge showcased his defensive skills, earning the Wilson Defensive Player of the Year Award. The 2020 season posed new challenges when COVID-19 affected the league, and Judge found himself once again on the injured list due to a calf strain. It wasn't until 2021 that he managed to stay healthy for most of the season, earning another All-Star nod and showcasing his ability as a clutch performer by leading the Yankees into the playoffs. Judge’s perseverance through injuries demonstrates not only his physical strength but also his mental fortitude, as he continually seeks excellence in his game.

AL Record for Home Runs

Aaron Judge made history in 2022 by breaking the American League record for home runs, previously held by Roger Maris. On October 4, 2022, in a game against the Texas Rangers, Judge hit his 62nd home run of the season, setting a new mark that had stood for 61 years. This remarkable achievement capped a season where Judge demonstrated not only prodigious power but also exceptional consistency, hitting at a .311 batting average. His record-breaking season captured the attention and admiration of fans across Major League Baseball, solidifying his status as one of the game's premier sluggers.

Judge's monumental feat was not just a personal triumph; it also ignited conversations about the significance of home runs in the modern game. In a season where he blasted 62 home runs, Judge not only tied Babe Ruth with his 60th but also surpassed historical figures like Mark McGwire to set a new standard for American League hitters. His ability to perform under pressure and rise to the occasion showcased his talent and work ethic, making him a role model for aspiring athletes. Ultimately, Judge's record season is a testament to his relentless drive and passion for baseball, marking him as a true giant in the sport's history.

Current 9-Year Contract and 2024 World Series

Aaron Judge re-entered the spotlight during the 2022 season, establishing himself as a premier talent in Major League Baseball. After rejecting a seven-year contract extension worth $213.5 million from the New York Yankees, he went on to have a record-breaking year, hitting 62 home runs and earning accolades as the American League MVP. This monumental season culminated in a nine-year deal valued at $360 million, making it the largest free-agent contract in MLB history at the time. Judge’s dedication and performance during this period showcased his value to the Yankees and solidified his place among baseball’s elite players.

In 2024, Judge’s contributions were pivotal as he transitioned from right field to center field and maintained a high level of performance, recording 58 home runs and driving in 144 RBIs. These achievements led the Yankees to the AL East division title and their return to the World Series for the first time in 15 years. Despite falling short against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Judge’s second MVP award recognized his remarkable regular-season performance, reflecting both personal growth and team leadership. His journey continues to inspire many as he balances his competitive spirit with a commitment to philanthropy through his ALL RISE Foundation.

Wife Samantha Bracksieck

Aaron Judge is married to Samantha Bracksieck, who has been an integral part of his life since their high school days. After drifting apart for a few years, the couple rekindled their romance in 2019. Their strong bond culminated in a heartfelt wedding ceremony in Hawaii in December 2021. Throughout their relationship, Samantha has been a source of support for Judge, motivating him to make important decisions in his career, including urging him to connect with New York Yankees management during contract negotiations in 2022.

Samantha Bracksieck has maintained a low profile, often staying out of the spotlight despite her husband’s fame. The couple shares a love for their two dachshunds, Gus and Penny, who have even appeared as cartoon characters in "Rubble & Friends," a spinoff of the popular "PAW Patrol" television series. Furthermore, Samantha lent her voice to represent their pet, Penny, showcasing their family’s playful and artistic side. Together, Judge and Bracksieck continue to navigate the challenges and rewards of life in the public eye, all while nurturing their close-knit family values.

Foundation

Aaron Judge is not only recognized for his remarkable achievements on the baseball field but also for his commitment to philanthropy through the ALL RISE Foundation. Established in 2018, the foundation aims to inspire children and young adults to become responsible citizens. Through various initiatives, it promotes leadership development, provides educational grants, and offers baseball camps, fostering both athletic and personal growth. Judge's dedication to giving back significantly contributes to his standing as a respected figure in the sports community.

The foundation's mission reflects Judge's values and experiences. He has emphasized the importance of community involvement and mentorship, showcasing how he uses his platform to make a positive impact. In recognition of his charitable efforts, Judge was nominated for the 2023 Roberto Clemente Award, which honors players who exemplify extraordinary character and community spirit. By engaging with youth and supporting local initiatives, Judge continues to demonstrate that his influence extends far beyond the baseball diamond.