Aaron Judge is arguably the face of the New York Yankees, but even superheroes have scars. Judge continues to put up numbers that separate him from the rest of the league, yet he’s still human. After playing center field during the 2024 World Series, the Yankees’ captain returns to right field this weekend—at Dodger Stadium, the site of one of the toughest moments of his career.
Aaron Judge Faces His Fears at Dodger Stadium
For most players, stepping back onto a familiar field doesn’t carry much meaning. For Judge, this return is different. The 33-year-old slugger knows that one awkward play can shift the entire season. His performance at the plate continues to lead the way for the Yankees, but his role in right field is just as important—and unavoidable.
“I’ll try not to think about it,” Judge said. “I’ve got a job to do on the field. I’m going to try to make every play I can.”
Judge said he usually takes time to get a feel for the outfield, especially in unfamiliar ballparks.
“I usually like to check out the dimensions, check out the wall, anything new, just how the ball bounces off it. Each park is so different. I’ll definitely try to get out there and see what’s going on.”
As for the changes the Dodgers made to their outfield since his injury?
“I don’t remember looking at what changes they made,” Judge said. “Hopefully it’s good changes. Nobody else has gotten hurt out there, so I’ll try not to think about it—because if you try to play with fear, you’re not going to be your best.”
AARON JUDGE, WHAT A GRAB! pic.twitter.com/snlOXLbt4f
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) June 4, 2023
Judge’s injury occurred on June 3, 2023, with the Yankees leading the Dodgers 5-3 in the bottom of the eighth. With a runner on first, Judge tracked a deep fly ball all the way to the wall. As the ball carried, he collided into the bullpen gate, which swung open on impact. Though he stayed upright and completed the play, he was seen limping immediately afterward.
Now, nearly two years later, Judge returns to the same ballpark with the Yankees surging. New York is wrapping up a nine-game road trip, which includes six games in Los Angeles. They swept the Angels and have won five straight.
After a surprising loss to the Rockies, the Yankees are looking to keep their momentum going as they take on the Dodgers for the first time since the World Series. Since May 6, the team has lost only four games, turning a 19-16 record into a remarkable 35-20 mark.
Judge has faced adversity before. But this weekend, under the lights at Dodger Stadium, he’ll once again show what it looks like to meet fear—and keep moving forward.