Some players become synonymous with a sport: the NFL, Tom Brady; football, Lionel Messi; rugby union, Dan Carter. A name that instantly comes to mind when thinking about the MLB is Aaron Judge. Patrolling right field, he has carved out a reputation as a key figure for the Yankees. His presence has become a familiar and reliable sight. Judge is expected to have a big 2026 season. The bookmakers predict he will, as they have him as the favourite to win the American League MVP at 9/5 odds.
Foundations
Judge’s athletic ability was on full display throughout his Linden High School days. He played American football, basketball, and baseball. Baseball was always his passion, and he turned down football scholarships. After sharpening his skillset at California State University, he was selected in the 31st round by the Oakland Athletics but opted not to sign. Three years later, his progress was rewarded when the Yankees selected him 32nd overall, securing his signature with a $1.8 million deal. It marked a major step in his journey.
Arriving in the MLB
After working his way through the Yankees’ minor league system, Judge came into his own upon arriving in the major leagues, hitting home runs in his first two games. He smashed 52 home runs in his rookie year and captured the American League Rookie of the Year award. The 2022 season belonged to Judge. Sixty-two home runs rewrote the record books, and the AL MVP crown confirmed his dominance. Throughout his MLB tenure, Judge has consistently been one of the league’s top players, and 2025 was no different.
2025 and 2026
2025 was another strong year for Judge, and he contributed significantly to the Yankees’ season. Looking at the statistics, Judge played 152 games and had 541 at-bats. With relentless consistency, he piled up 137 runs, 179 hits, and 53 home runs. His dominance was clear, topping the league in both batting average (.331) and OPS (1.144). Judge ranked in the top five across most statistical categories; the megastar has shown he still has a lot to give. So expect more of the same in 2026 because when he is at the top of his game, there is no one better, making him the best option to bet on to win the AL MVP.
It will be great to see what is in store for Judge, and if the bet succeeds, then it could be a great return. With every swing and every moment under the lights, Judge continues to carve his name deeper into baseball history. The season ahead feels like another chapter waiting to inspire.