New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge made an immediate impact in his spring training debut on Saturday, launching two home runs as he begins formal game preparation for next month’s World Baseball Classic with Team USA.
The performance marked Judge’s first game action of the spring and offered an early look at his timing and power after the offseason. Appearing in the Yankees’ Grapefruit League schedule, Judge delivered a pair of long balls that underscored both his health and readiness as competitive play ramps up.
Judge is set to join the United States roster for the upcoming World Baseball Classic, an international tournament that brings together many of the game’s top players. His spring debut serves as an important on-field tune‑up before he shifts from the Yankees’ camp environment to the high‑intensity setting of international play.
While spring statistics are not the primary focus for veteran players, Judge’s showing is notable given the condensed runway before the WBC begins. With fewer exhibition games available to sharpen his swing against live pitching, any early signs of rhythm at the plate help build confidence for both the player and his national team.
For the Yankees, Judge’s strong start is an encouraging indicator that their star outfielder is in good form as the club begins its preparations for the regular season. The team will monitor his workload as he balances responsibilities between New York’s camp and his commitment to Team USA.
Participating in the World Baseball Classic offers Judge additional high‑level competition before Opening Day, potentially accelerating his game speed and readiness. At the same time, it reduces the number of spring games he will play in a Yankees uniform, placing added importance on each appearance he makes in camp.
Judge’s two‑homer spring debut, combined with his upcoming role for the United States, positions him as one of the central figures to watch both in the WBC and as the Yankees move toward the regular season. His early power display highlights the impact he can have in any lineup he joins, whether for club or country.
