Aaron Judge Becomes Team USA Captain for 2026 World Baseball Classic
NEW YORK — Aaron Judge watched from home as Mike Trout proudly carried the American flag in the 2023 World Baseball Classic final. Now, that honor is his.
On Monday, Team USA manager Mark DeRosa announced on MLB Network that Judge will captain Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. He is the first confirmed player and will make his debut in the tournament.
“It’s special to represent your country,” Judge said. “I think about the brave people who fought for our freedom. Getting this chance is humbling.”
Why He Waited Until Now
After a historic 62-homer season in 2022, Judge signed a nine-year, $360 million contract with the Yankees. At the time, he felt a strong responsibility to stay with the team, especially after being named captain—the first since Derek Jeter.
Even though he missed the 2023 WBC, he hoped for another chance. His interest reached DeRosa through two sources: pitching coach Andy Pettitte and Yankees executive Chad Bohling.
“Judge was the first player I thought of when I became manager,” DeRosa said. “I watched Trout carry the flag, and I want Judge to be that guy next.”
DeRosa also spoke to Trout, who gave full support:
“He’s one of the faces of the game. Players and fans respect him. I think he’ll be a great captain for Team USA.”
Judge also said he hopes Trout will return for 2026.
“He’d better be in the outfield with me,” he joked.
Although Judge is excited, he doesn’t plan to recruit teammates. According to DeRosa, many players already want to join.
“I could fill five lineups with position players who’ve reached out,” DeRosa said.
The real challenge will be convincing pitchers to play, since the WBC takes place during Spring Training.
What’s Next for Team USA
The 2026 WBC will happen in San Juan, Tokyo, Houston, and Miami. The semifinals and finals will be held at loanDepot Park, home of the Miami Marlins. Team USA will compete in Pool B, based in Houston.
“It’s exciting to see players who usually compete all year come together,” Judge said. “We don’t get many chances like this. Everyone wants to be part of something meaningful.”
In 2023, Team USA reached the final but lost to Japan, with Shohei Ohtani striking out Mike Trout to end the game. The only WBC title for Team USA came in 2017.
“The 2023 team was strong,” Judge said. “Now we can add more young stars who are passionate about representing the USA. I believe we’ll be on a mission to win.”
