The

New York Yankees

’ star

Aaron Judge

has now taken up the role of the captain of Team USA in the 2026

World Baseball Classic

. One thing Judge always dreamt of. He’s also super excited to lead the team when they face top players from around the world. Team USA’s manager,

Mark DeRosa

spoke to former captain

Mike Trout

, regarding Judge taking over the role. He shared his candid conversation with Trout.

Team USA’s manager Mark DeRosa spoke to former captain Mike Trout, when he thought of having New York Yankees’ captain Aaron Judge taking up the big opportunity. He recalls that Trout agreed to DeRosa and said:

“He’s the one.”

This one statement can pretty much explain the impact of Aaron Judge. A player of his class, capability, and composure.

Aaron Judge also remembered how brilliantly Mike Trout led Team USA in the last World Baseball Classic. He remembers how Trout carried the American flag onto the field. He remembers how proud Trout looked.
For Aaron Judge, it is a big deal, to be able to honor the American flag and take over the big responsibility.
While speaking at a press conference with Mike DeRosa at the Yankee Stadium, Aaron Judge was thoughtful enough to thank the people in the military because it is for their service that he plays baseball and is able to represent the USA. Aaron Judge said:

"To hear that praise from you, hear the praise from Trouty, it’s something special. Getting the chance to represent our country — I said it earlier this morning — just thinking about all the brave men and women who have fought for this country and laid their lives down for us to get a chance to go out here, especially me, go out here and play a game. It’s a pretty humbling experience.”
Further, Judge said:
"Happy to represent the US, and happy to be your captain."

The New York Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone too shared how he felt when Aaron Judge was announced the

Team USA Captain

. He said:
"In a lot of ways, he’s certainly one of the face of baseball. Such a magnetic personality that people gravitate to, that people around the game love and respect. I think he’ll be great."
Also Read: “Why Isn’t It Ohtani?”: Fan War Continues As MLB Announces Aaron Judge As Team USA Captain