Aaron Judge: 10 Surprising Facts About Baseball’s Superstar
You know Aaron Judge for his towering home runs and record-breaking seasons, but there’s so much more to baseball’s biggest star. The Yankees’ captain is a record-breaking, home run-crushing, fan-favorite superstar. At 6-foot-7, he’s built like a linebacker but swings a bat like a legend. From his humble beginnings to his record-shattering career, there’s more to Judge than just home runs.
These 15 facts will make you see Judge in a whole new way.
Adopted at Birth, But Born to Be a Star

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Aaron Judge was adopted by Wayne and Patty Judge shortly after his birth. He became aware of his adoption around age 10. His parents, both teachers, have been steadfast supporters throughout his life. “I kind of figured it out,” he once said, noticing how he looked nothing like his parents. His parents continue to be his biggest fans.
He Could Have Been a Football or Basketball Star

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Baseball wasn’t Judge’s only sport in high school. He dominated football, basketball, and baseball, earning college offers to play tight end and even averaging 18 points per game on the court. But when Fresno State came knocking with a baseball scholarship, Judge bet on his bat, and the rest is history.
A Bulldog Before a Yankee

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Before wearing the pinstripes, Judge played for California State University, Fresno (the Fresno State Bulldogs). There, he became a standout outfielder, impressing scouts with his power and size. In addition to being a big hitter, he had speed, a strong arm, and leadership skills that set him apart.
His Rookie Season Was the Stuff of Legends

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Judge arrived in the majors and exploded onto the scene. In 2017, he smashed 52 home runs, setting a new MLB rookie record at the time. That same year, he was named AL Rookie of the Year and finished second in MVP voting. Not bad for a first season!
He Made History at the Home Run Derby

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In 2017, Judge did what no rookie had ever done before. He won the Home Run Derby. He was obliterating baseballs, crushing them deep into the stadium. One of his home runs even hit the roof of Marlins Park!
Two MVP Awards and Counting

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Judge’s power and leadership finally earned him an American League MVP award in 2022. It happened the same year he broke the AL home run record. Then, in 2024, he did it again, proving he’s one of the best players in the game today.
He’s the First Yankees Captain Since Derek Jeter

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The Yankees don’t hand out the captain title lightly. After Jeter retired in 2014, the position remained vacant—until 2023, when Judge was officially named the team’s leader. Following in Jeter’s footsteps is no easy task, but Judge’s leadership has earned him the respect of the clubhouse and Yankees fans alike.
Fastest Player to 300 Home Runs

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It took Aaron Judge just 955 games to blast 300 home runs, making him the fastest player in MLB history to reach that mark. With his pace, he could one day join the exclusive 500-home-run club or maybe even 600.
He’s One of the Biggest Players in Baseball History

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At 6-foot-7 and 282 pounds, Judge is one of the tallest and heaviest position players ever. His size is more than a show as it gives him incredible power and helps him send baseballs soaring over the outfield wall like they’re pop flies.
He Has a Weird Superstition About Bubblegum

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Judge has a simple rule: If he gets a hit, he keeps chewing the same gum. If not? Out it goes, and a fresh piece goes in. Considering his career batting average, that must be a lot of gum—maybe that’s the real secret to his success.
Giving Back With the All-Rise Foundation

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This baseball superstar does more than just break records. He’s about helping kids too. His All-Rise Foundation inspires young people to work hard, dream big, and become leaders. Whether through sports or education, Judge is committed to making a difference beyond the ballpark.
He Could Have Been an NFL Tight End

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It’s not just baseball scouts who saw Judge’s potential—college football programs wanted him too. With his size and athleticism, he could have been a dominant tight end, following in the footsteps of Rob Gronkowski or Travis Kelce. But luckily for Yankees fans, he chose baseball over football.
He Landed on the Cover of MLB The Show

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Judge became the face of the game when he was chosen as the cover athlete for MLB The Show 18. The video game franchise only picks the biggest stars, and Judge’s rookie dominance earned him the spotlight.
Endorsed by Jordan Brand and Adidas

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Few baseball players land major shoe deals, but Judge has had endorsement deals with both Adidas and Jordan Brand. His athleticism and larger-than-life presence make him a perfect fit for brands that celebrate greatness.
He’s About to Become a Dad

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In January 2025, Judge and his wife, Samantha Bracksieck, announced they were expecting their first child. With a home run on the field and a grand slam in life, Judge is stepping into a new role—fatherhood.