Breaking: Yankees’ Star Outfielder Aaron Judge Finally Responds to Fans’ Criticisms
New York Yankees star outfielder Aaron Judge has addressed fans’ boos during the team’s recent slump. After a strong start to the 2024 season, the Yankees have struggled, going 5-16 since June 14, leaving fans frustrated. Judge discussed the criticism on the Casa De Klub podcast.
“You don’t like hearing it. It stings, but I think I wouldn’t want it any other way, man,” Judge said. “I’d rather be getting booed in New York for not doing what I need to do. I’m supposed to be there to be the middle of the lineup, producing, doing my thing. If I’m not, let me hear it. I’d rather have that than being in another city where the fans are just…they’re clapping when I just flew out for the fourth time…grounded into a double play…they’re like ‘it’s all right you’ll get it next time.’ Man, that’s not why we play, you want to play to win. It’s a high standard, you know, we got high standards for ourselves, but the fans help remind you like ‘hey, we got a high standard here in Pinstripes’ and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Judge, who leads the league in home runs (32) and RBIs (83) while batting .308, acknowledged the fans’ passion and high expectations. Despite the team’s struggles, the Yankees still hold the top Wild Card spot in the AL.
Judge also mentioned a past offer from the Tampa Bay Rays in 2022, which he described as “a very respectful offer.”
Yankees Rookie Ben Rice Thriving Amid Team’s Struggles
Amid the Yankees’ recent woes, rookie Ben Rice has been a bright spot. Since his call-up from the minor leagues, Rice has made a significant impact. He made franchise history on Saturday, hitting three home runs in a single game against the Boston Red Sox, leading to a 14-4 victory.
Promoted in late June, Rice has been impressive in his 19 games, batting .267 with five home runs and 14 RBIs. He has also drawn eight walks and struck out 13 times. Drafted in the 12th round in 2021, Rice’s performance has caught the attention of manager Aaron Boone.
“He’s coming off an outstanding year last year in the Minor Leagues that put him on the map and burst onto the scene,” Boone said. “He earned a trip to Spring Training and continued that through spring and then to start the year. He’s come up here and given us quality at-bats each and every day.”
While the Yankees face challenges, both Judge’s leadership and Rice’s emergence provide hope for a turnaround
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