Aaron Judge has been named the captain for Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. He had a message for Mike Trout, who led the team in 2023.
During a live announcement on MLB Network, manager Mark DeRosa revealed that Aaron Judge was the first player committed to play for Team USA and that he would be the captain. DeRosa revealed that Trout was informed about the decision and felt that Judge should be the captain. Judge had a heartfelt message for Trout as well.
“That’s what it’s all about, the recognition from your peers, especially from Mike Trout,” Judge said on MLB Network. “He’s the best player in the game and has been since I came into the league and before I came into the league. I’m still hoping he’s on the team. He better be out there patrolling the outfield with me.”
Judge is a two-time American League MVP, six-time All-Star and four-time Silver Slugger. However, the man he is taking over for has accomplished just as much, and then some.
Trout has three MVP Awards, 11 All-Star nods and nine Silver Sluggers. Judge has never represented the United States before and will lead Team USA in their quest to win the World Baseball Classic.
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In 2023, the United States finished as the runner-up to Samurai Japan. Mike Trout struck out against Shohei Ohtani to end the championship game. However, the United States will be hoping for different results in 2026, with Aaron Judge now committed to playing.
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