Aaron Judge reports to Yankees spring training after stellar 2025 campaign

Aaron Judge swings during Yankees spring training drills.

Aaron Judge arrived at the New York Yankees spring training facility in Tampa on Monday, marking the start of his 11th season with the club. The 33-year-old right fielder topped the majors with 53 home runs and a 1.144 OPS last year, earning unanimous American League MVP honors. Judge signed a one-year extension last fall, locking him in through 2031.

He stepped onto the field early, joining voluntary workouts ahead of position players reporting next week. Judge hit soft toss and took batting practice, drawing attention with booming drives to center. Pitchers and catchers began sessions last Thursday, setting the stage for full squad integration.

The Yankees finished second in the AL East at 94-68, falling in five ALCS games. Judge drove in 144 runs, stole 10 bases and posted career highs across key categories. Management adjusted the roster with lefty starters this winter to complement his power.

Judge spoke briefly with reporters, focusing on daily preparation over playoff disappointments. He bulked up slightly during the offseason, emphasizing durability after toe and oblique issues sidelined him previously. Teammates noted his sharper leadership presence in clubhouse meetings.

Tampa weather cooperated with sunny conditions, unlike rainouts plaguing early drills. Judge eyes 60 homers as a personal benchmark while prioritizing team championship odds. The Yankees open exhibition play March 1 against Toronto.