Why Yankees’ Aaron Judge Loves Center Field Despite Injury Risk
Aaron Judge has embraced playing center field for the New York Yankees.
With the Yankees acquiring Juan Soto and Alex Verdugo this offseason, it’s clear that Judge will see significant time in center field in 2024. This was the case during his MVP season in 2022 when he hit 62 home runs. This season, Judge is again in the MVP conversation, starting 58 games in center field and producing impressive stats. Despite concerns about the injury risk due to the physical demands of the position, Judge enjoys playing center field, just as he did at Fresno State.
“You’ve got a great view from there,” Judge told Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. “When they talked about getting Verdugo and Soto, I said I’d play wherever needed—left field, center field, second base, DH—whatever it takes to help the team. I love center field.”
Judge has performed well defensively, with one defensive run saved and no outs above average. Offensively, his stats are outstanding: a .300 batting average, .423 on-base percentage, .686 slugging percentage, and 28 home runs, giving him a wRC+ of 206, which means he is 106 percent better than the league average hitter, according to FanGraphs.
Adjusting His Routine for Center Field
Judge has adapted his routine to manage the demands of playing center field. Acknowledging the increased workload, he has streamlined his pregame activities, taking advice from fellow slugger Giancarlo Stanton.
“Playing center field wears on your body,” Judge said. “I’ve tweaked the workload a bit, being smart about it. After years in the game, you learn little things. Stanton advised me that I don’t need to take so many swings. Just go out there, have fun, and be smart.”
The Yankees are aiming to bounce back from three consecutive series losses as they prepare for a two-game series against the New York Mets. They remain in a strong position, leading the Baltimore Orioles by two games for first place in the American League East.
The additions of Soto and Verdugo have been beneficial overall. Judge remains central to the team’s success, and his willingness to play center field has provided the Yankees with greater flexibility.
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