#aaron_judge

World Baseball Classic: Why USA Would Still Qualify for Olympics Without Advancing The United States baseball team faces an unexpected dilemma in the 2026 World Baseball Classic after a stunning loss to Italy. Despite the setback, the team remains locked in for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, which will serve as the host city. This automatic qualification means the outcome of the WBC does not directly impact the USA’s Olympic berth, though the team’s performance in the tournament could still influence future opportunities. The WBC is one of three qualifying events for the 2028 Olympic baseball tournament, which will feature six teams. As the host nation, the USA secures an automatic spot, eliminating the need to compete for a berth. However, the tournament’s structure and the potential for MLB players to participate in the Olympics add layers of complexity. The 2028 Games are scheduled for July 15-20 at Dodger Stadium, overlapping with the All-Star break and requiring logistical coordination. The qualification process for the Olympics involves multiple events. The host team (USA) is guaranteed a spot. The 2026 WBC will determine two teams from the Americas, while the 2027 WSBC Premier12 will select one team from Asia and another from Europe/Oceania. The final Olympic berth will be awarded through a qualifier event in March 2028, featuring teams from the 2027 European and Asian championships, the African champion, and the highest-ranked team from the Oceanic championship. The USA’s current situation highlights the unique position of the host nation. Even if the team fails to advance beyond the first round of the WBC, they are already assured a place in the Olympics. This scenario has sparked discussions about the broader implications for MLB players.#united_states #world_baseball_classic #los_angeles #mlb #aaron_judge

Aaron Judge's wife played huge role in life-changing $360 million agreement Aaron Judge is leading Team USA into the final of the World Baseball Classic, with his wife, Samantha Bracksieck, by his side throughout the tournament. The United States secured its place in the final after a controversial game against the Dominican Republic, where Judge faced backlash from Yankees fans for his post-match comments. Despite the attention, Judge remains focused on representing his country, with plans to return to New York after the tournament concludes. His journey to the Yankees' record-breaking $360 million, nine-year contract before the 2023 season was heavily influenced by his wife. Judge entered free agency ahead of the 2023 season and drew interest from the San Diego Padres and San Francisco Giants. The Giants reportedly made an initial offer, but the Yankees ultimately retained him with a historic contract. During contract negotiations, Judge revealed that his wife encouraged him to reach out to Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner when talks stalled. Judge shared the story on a podcast, explaining how his wife pushed him to contact Steinbrenner despite the owner being on vacation. Judge described the conversation as pivotal. He explained that after discussing potential offers with his wife during a flight to Hawaii, he decided to call Steinbrenner. The owner, impressed by Judge's commitment, agreed to extend his contract and announced his promotion to team captain. Judge was surprised by the captaincy offer, noting it was more impactful than the financial terms. His wife, Samantha, was eager to hear his reaction, emphasizing the significance of the moment.#world_baseball_classic #aaron_judge #yankees #samantha_bracksieck #hal_steinbrenner

Aaron Judge's Confession About Wife Samantha Raises Eyebrows Before USA WBC Semifinal Team USA’s roster for the World Baseball Classic is widely regarded as one of the most elite baseball teams ever assembled. The challenge, however, lies in the strength of their semifinal opponent, the Dominican Republic, which is also a powerhouse in the tournament. The matchup between the two teams is set for March 15, with the winner advancing to face the victor of the Venezuela-Italy semifinal. Despite the high stakes, neither squad is underestimating the other, as both feature star players capable of making a significant impact. For Team USA, the pitching staff includes 2025 NL Cy Young Award winner Paul Skenes, who will take the mound against the Dominican Republic. The Dominican Republic counters with Athletics standout Luis Severino, a formidable presence on the mound. Both teams’ lineups, however, are dominated by MLB All-Stars, making the game a clash of elite talent. Among the USA’s stars, New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge stands out as a key threat. His performance in the tournament has been a focal point, with his first at-bat on Sunday resulting in a single, signaling his readiness for the high-pressure environment. Judge’s pregame comments added an intriguing layer to the narrative. Speaking with the media, he expressed his excitement for the matchup, which he views as one of the most significant stages in baseball aside from the World Series. His remarks included a personal anecdote about the camaraderie among the team’s stars, emphasizing how the players have set aside individual egos to prioritize team success. This mindset, he suggested, is crucial for the USA to achieve victory in the World Baseball Classic. Beyond the game, Judge’s personal life has also drawn attention.#aaron_judge #samantha_bracksieck #linden_high_school #fresno_state_university #usa_wbc

Samantha Bracksieck: The Wife of Aaron Judge and Her Role in His Success Samantha Bracksieck has played a significant role in the life of Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees’ star outfielder and team captain. While Judge is widely recognized for his dominance in Major League Baseball, Bracksieck has maintained a private presence, supporting him throughout his career. Their relationship began during their high school years at Linden High School in California, where they developed a connection that grew stronger over time. After high school, the couple continued their education at California State University, Fresno, where Bracksieck pursued her passion for kinesiology. She earned two degrees in the field and conducted groundbreaking research on elbow injuries in MLB pitchers. Her master’s thesis focused on how specific pitching mechanics increase the risk of ligament damage, highlighting her dedication to sports science and her deep understanding of the physical demands of baseball. Bracksieck has chosen to keep her personal life out of the public eye, avoiding social media and media attention. While she occasionally attends Yankees games to support her husband, her presence is typically limited to key moments in his career. Judge has often spoken about the stability she provides, which has been especially important during major milestones, such as when he broke the American League home run record in 2022. The couple married in a private ceremony on December 13, 2021, in Maui, Hawaii. The event was attended by family and close friends, including some of Judge’s Yankees teammates. In January 2025, they welcomed their first child, a daughter named Nora Rose Judge, shortly after Judge publicly announced their pregnancy.#world_baseball_classic #aaron_judge #samantha_bracksieck #linden_high_school #california_state_university_fresno

Topps Rookie And Racing Cards Draw Fresh Attention From Collectors Collector interest in Topps cards is currently focused on three distinct product highlights. These include a high-grade 2017 refractor Aaron Judge rookie card, a curated list of five notable 2005 rookie baseball cards, and a Spanish-language listing for a 2022 F1 Turbo Attax card featuring Esteban. The attention spans across both baseball and motorsport card lines, reflecting a broader trend in the collecting community. The 2017 refractor Aaron Judge card, specifically the “Catching” pose variant, has drawn significant attention due to its combination of features. The card is graded PSA 10 GEM MT, a top-tier condition that appeals to collectors seeking pristine examples. The refractor variation, a rare printing technique, adds to its desirability. The “Rookie RC” designation further emphasizes its status as a first-time appearance in the Topps Chrome set. While the card’s details are well-defined, no additional information about its market value, population, or recent sales is provided in the available context. A separate focus is on the 2005 Topps rookie baseball cards, which are being presented as a curated selection for serious collectors. The listing positions these cards as standout examples from a year that produced several iconic rookie cards. Although the specific cards included in the list are not detailed, the framing suggests a deliberate effort to guide collectors toward high-value options. The term “terrific” in the headline implies that these cards are considered exceptional within their set, catering to long-time hobbyists and those with a deeper interest in the hobby. The third highlight is a 2022 F1 Turbo Attax card numbered 145, labeled as the “Speedster” and featuring Esteban.#aaron_judge #topps #psa_10_gem_mt #f1_turbo_attax #esteban

Team USA baseball dominates Brazil, wins 2026 World Baseball Classic opener The United States national baseball team secured a commanding victory in its 2026 World Baseball Classic Pool B opener, defeating Brazil 15-5 on March 6, 2026, at Daikin Park in Houston. The game, which marked Team USA’s return to the tournament after winning silver in 2023, saw the Americans cruise to a decisive win despite a late rally by Brazil. Aaron Judge of the United States hit a two-run home run in the first inning, giving Team USA an early lead. The Americans maintained control throughout the game, with Brice Turang delivering a standout performance. Turang went 3-for-6 with four RBIs and two doubles, while Roman Anthony contributed two RBIs in a balanced offensive display. Judge, though limited to a single home run, scored three runs and remained a key presence at the plate. Brazil’s Lucas Ramirez, the son of former MLB star Manny Ramirez, hit two home runs, briefly narrowing the gap as the game progressed. However, Team USA’s pitching staff held firm, with starter Logan Webb earning the win. Webb struck out six batters in four innings, allowing just one run. Brazil’s Bo Takahashi took the loss after surrendering five runs over six innings. The game’s momentum shifted dramatically in the ninth inning, when Team USA erupted for seven runs to seal the victory. After Brazil cut the deficit to 8-5 with three runs in the seventh and another in the eighth, the Americans responded with a barrage of offensive production. A balk and a run-scoring ground out by Turang extended the lead to 13-5, followed by a walk by Pete Crow-Armstrong and an RBI single by Roman Anthony to make it 12-5. Cal Raleigh’s bases-loaded walk in the ninth inning pushed the score to 11-5, before the final runs sealed the 15-5 result.#team_usa #brasil #brice_turang #daikin_park #aaron_judge

How many future Hall of Famers are playing in the 2026 WBC? The 2026 World Baseball Classic will feature a star-studded lineup of players who are already considered future Hall of Famers. Among them are some of the most decorated and accomplished athletes in the sport, including several who have already made their mark on the game. The tournament will serve as a showcase for these players, many of whom are in the final stages of their careers or have already reached the pinnacle of their profession. One of the most anticipated players is Clayton Kershaw, who will make his first appearance in the WBC after retiring from the Los Angeles Dodgers. Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, is expected to be a key figure for the United States team, though his role may be more symbolic than competitive. Similarly, Shohei Ohtani, who is not yet eligible for the Hall of Fame, will represent Japan. Ohtani, a two-time MVP and one of the most versatile players in baseball history, will focus on his baseball career with the Dodgers rather than pitching for Japan. Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees’ slugger, is another standout player set to compete in the WBC. Judge, who has already won two MVP awards, is considered a strong candidate for the Hall of Fame despite his relatively late start to his professional career. His ability to consistently deliver at the highest level has made him a fan favorite and a potential future inductee. Manny Machado, the Dominican Republic’s star third baseman, is also expected to play in the tournament. Machado, who has already accumulated over 60 career WAR, is on the verge of securing his place in the Hall of Fame. His impressive statistics, including over 2,000 hits and 369 home runs, make him a strong contender for induction.#world_baseball_classic #shohei_ohtani #aaron_judge #manny_machado #clayton_kershaw

Yankees’ Aaron Judge delivers strong message on eve of WBC: ‘I love this country’ Aaron Judge, the Yankees’ star outfielder, emphasized his deep patriotism and commitment to representing the United States as he prepares to compete in the World Baseball Classic. The 2026 tournament marks his first appearance in the event, and Judge has expressed his excitement about the opportunity to showcase American baseball on a global stage. Judge, who has been a key figure for the Yankees, is taking a three-week break from spring training to join Team USA in Arizona. He will don the Team USA jersey, a role he described as one of the greatest honors of his career. “I’m going into this to win it, but it’s not just that,” Judge said at Steinbrenner Field. “I’m representing the U.S. I love this country. It’s the greatest country in the world.” The 32-year-old player, known for his measured responses during the regular season, spoke candidly about his pride in American values. “I think about the men and women who have sacrificed so much to preserve our freedom and our way of life,” he said. “That’s what the jersey means to me. I’ll wear it to honor those who’ve given their lives so I can play this kid’s game. So I can have a beautiful family and live free.” Judge’s patriotism has been a defining trait since his early days. As a teenager, he developed an interest in U.S. history, particularly its role in World War II. His father, Wayne, was a varsity basketball coach at Linden High School in California, where Judge first encountered the national anthem. Today, he leads his Yankees teammates in singing God Bless America during the seventh inning stretch at the Stadium. Alongside Gerrit Cole, Anthony Volpe, and Aaron Boone, he enforces a tradition of singing the anthem in front of the dugout as a sign of respect for veterans.#world_baseball_classic #team_usa #aaron_judge #yankees #mark_derosa

Yankees’ Aaron Judge Expresses Deep Patriotism Ahead of WBC Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees’ star outfielder, made a heartfelt statement on the eve of the World Baseball Classic (WBC), emphasizing his deep connection to the United States. Speaking at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Florida, Judge highlighted his commitment to representing his country during the international tournament, which he described as one of the greatest honors of his career. “I’m going into this to win it, but it’s not just that,” he said. “I’m representing the U.S. I love this country. It’s the greatest country in the world.” Judge’s participation in the WBC marks a three-week hiatus from Yankees spring training, during which he will join a roster of American players to compete for Team USA. The Yankees’ star slugger expressed pride in the opportunity to wear the USA jersey, framing it as a tribute to the sacrifices of military personnel and civilians who have defended the nation’s freedoms. “I think about the men and women who have sacrificed so much to preserve our freedom and our way of life,” he said. “That’s what the jersey means to me. I’ll wear it to honor those who’ve given their lives so I can play this kid’s game. So I can have a beautiful family and live free.” Judge’s patriotism has been a consistent theme throughout his career, but his recent comments underscore a deeper personal conviction. As a teenager, he developed an early interest in U.S. history, particularly its role in World War II, and his father, Wayne, introduced him to the national anthem as a varsity basketball coach at Linden High School in northern California.#world_baseball_classic #new_york_yankees #aaron_judge #steinbrenner_field #tampa_florida

Judge: Team USA looking to carry Olympic hockey momentum into WBC Aaron Judge joined Pat McAfee to discuss how the United States men’s hockey team aims to leverage its success from the Olympic Games to perform strongly in the World Baseball Classic. The conversation highlighted the team’s focus on maintaining the momentum gained during the Olympics, where they demonstrated resilience and skill. Judge emphasized the importance of translating that energy into the WBC, noting the competitive nature of the tournament and the need for consistent performance. The discussion also touched on the challenges of transitioning from Olympic competition to a different format in the WBC, including the physical and mental demands of the event. Judge acknowledged the pressure to deliver results but expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and unity. He mentioned the importance of teamwork, strategy, and adapting to the unique challenges of baseball at the international level. The interview underscored the broader context of Team USA’s ambitions in global sports, balancing the excitement of Olympic success with the expectations of high-stakes tournaments like the WBC. Judge’s insights provided a glimpse into the mindset of athletes striving to excel in multiple international competitions. While the conversation centered on hockey, it also reflected the interconnected nature of sports, where athletes often compete in multiple events. The discussion highlighted the need for adaptability, discipline, and a strong support system to succeed across different sports arenas. Judge’s comments served as a reminder of the dedication required to maintain peak performance in competitive environments.#world_baseball_classic #aaron_judge #pat_mcafee #united_states_men_s_hockey_team #olympic_games

Judge: Team USA looking to carry Olympic hockey momentum into WBC Aaron Judge joins Pat McAfee to explain how Team USA is looking to carry the momentum from Olympic hockey into the World Baseball Classic. Milan Momcilovic goes on 9-0 run to end half for Iowa State. Jalen Washington’s alley-oop slam puts stamp on Vandy's win. Travis Etienne clarifies how his name should be pronounced. Åberg chips in to tie nine-hole TPC Sawgrass record. Michael Pittman is 'stinking fired up' to be a Pittsburgh Steeler. Can Canada shock Team USA in WBC? Is SGA the runaway favorite for NBA MVP? Big 12 commissioner explains decision to swap LED glass court for hardwood. Why Woody calls Geno Smith a 'massive upgrade' for Jets. Jordan Spieth sinks long birdie from off the green. * Your US State Privacy Rights * Children's Online Privacy Policy * Interest-Based Ads * About Nielsen Measurement * Your Privacy Choices * Disney Ad Sales Site GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos.#aaron_judge #pat_mcafee #iowa_state #jalen_washington #vandy

Aaron Judge Aims to Lead USA to Gold at 2026 World Baseball Classic Tampa, Fla. – Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees’ star outfielder, is preparing to lead Team USA in its quest for gold at the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Reflecting on the 2023 tournament, where Shohei Ohtani’s game-winning strikeout of Mike Trout ended the competition, Judge emphasized the need for a new chapter. “Now it’s time for us to go out there and change that script,” he said after a Grapefruit League victory over the Blue Jays. Ten months after committing to represent Team USA and being named the team’s first captain, Judge is ready to chase the championship. The 2026 tournament will feature quarterfinals in Scottsdale, Arizona, with exhibition games against the Giants and Rockies scheduled for early March. Judge will join Yankees teammates David Bednar and Paul Goldschmidt on the roster, marking a significant presence for the team. The tournament’s pool play begins on March 6 against Brazil at Houston’s Daikin Park. Many players have cited the WBC as a career highlight, a sentiment Judge has encountered frequently. “It’s like a playoff atmosphere from the start, and it helps you get ready for the season quickly,” he said. Bednar, who competed in the 2023 tournament, added, “You’re going full guns blazing from the get-go.” The Yankees’ involvement extends beyond Judge and his teammates. Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Brendan Beck will represent Great Britain, while Austin Wells, Camilo Doval, and Amed Rosario will suit up for the Dominican Republic. Fernando Cruz and Elmer Rodríguez will pitch for Puerto Rico, and Harrison Cohen will join Team Israel. José Caballero, playing for Panama, noted the pride of representing his country. “It’s a special moment to be on the biggest stage for baseball,” he said.#world_baseball_classic #shohei_ohtani #new_york_yankees #team_usa #aaron_judge

Aaron Judge ready to chase gold at World Baseball Classic Aaron Judge is preparing to lead the United States to victory in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, vowing to rewrite the script from the 2023 tournament. The New York Yankees’ star outfielder reflected on the moment when Shohei Ohtani struck out Mike Trout to end the 2023 competition, which left a lasting impression. “Now it’s time for us to go out there and change that script,” Judge said after a Grapefruit League game against the Blue Jays. Ten months after committing to represent Team USA and being named the team’s first captain, Judge is finally set to compete in the tournament. He will join fellow Yankees players David Bednar and Paul Goldschmidt on the roster, with the team traveling to Scottsdale, Arizona, for exhibition games against the Giants and Rockies. The Yankees’ involvement in the WBC extends beyond their players, with several coaches and alumni participating, including bench coach Brad Ausmus (Israel manager), catching coach Tanner Swanson (Great Britain bench coach), and pitching coach Andy Pettitte. The 2026 tournament will feature Pool B in Houston and Pool D in Miami, with games starting on March 6. Team USA will open their pool play against Brazil in Houston. Players have consistently praised the WBC for its intense competition and the opportunity to prepare for the regular season. “It’s heated competition. You’re fighting for your country,” Judge said. Bednar, who played for Team USA in 2023, added, “You’re going full guns blazing from the get-go.” The Yankees’ representation in the tournament is significant, with players like Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Brendan Beck joining Great Britain, while Austin Wells, Camilo Doval, and Amed Rosario will compete for the Dominican Republic.#world_baseball_classic #shohei_ohtani #new_york_yankees #aaron_judge #david_bednar