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Aaron Judge of the Yankees has opted out of the 2024 Home Run Derby, stating that he does not feel the need to compete this year.
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    Aaron Judge of the Yankees has opted out of the 2024 Home Run Derby, stating that he does not feel the need to compete this year.

    Even after smacking his MLB-best 28th home run on Saturday, New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge has no intention of returning to the Home Run Derby during this year’s All-Star festivities.

    Speaking to reporters before the Yankees’ game against the Atlanta Braves, Judge confirmed he wouldn’t participate but committed to partaking in the event when it returns to New York.

    “I’m not doing it,” the 2022 AL MVP said. “There’s no need this year.”

    Judge competed and won the Home Run Derby in 2017 — his rookie season — blasting 47 total dingers at Marlins Park in Miami. While he hasn’t returned to a Derby since becoming the first rookie to outright win the contest, Judge has become baseball’s biggest threat to hit the long ball.

    The 32-year-old has hit 280 home runs since 2017, 33 more than the next closest player, Kyle Schwarber, despite playing nearly 100 fewer games over that time. Judge, of course, set the AL single-season record in 2022 by launching 62 balls over the wall.

    There are currently no plans for an All-Star weekend to take place in New York, with the next three mid-summer classics scheduled for Texas, Atlanta and Philadelphia. The new Yankee Stadium has yet to host an All-Star Game.

    “I’m not done with it,” Judge said of the Derby. “Once it’s back in New York, I’ll be there.”

    Judge will likely be at the 2024 All-Star Game. MLB revealed the leaders of the fan vote on Monday, and the Yankees outfielder had received the most votes of any player in baseball.

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    Aaron Judge, the star outfielder for the New York Yankees, has made the surprising decision to opt out of the 2024 Home Run Derby. Judge, who is known for his impressive power at the plate, has been a fan favorite in the annual event, but this year he has chosen to sit out.

    In a statement released by the Yankees, Judge explained his decision, stating that he does not feel the need to compete in the Home Run Derby this year. While some fans may be disappointed by his absence, Judge’s reasoning is understandable. The Home Run Derby can be physically taxing on players, and Judge may want to focus on staying healthy and performing well in the second half of the season.

    Judge’s decision also raises questions about the future of the Home Run Derby. The event has always been a popular showcase for the game’s biggest sluggers, but with players like Judge opting out, it may be time for Major League Baseball to consider making changes to the format or scheduling of the event.

    Despite Judge’s absence, there will still be plenty of excitement surrounding the 2024 Home Run Derby. Fans can look forward to seeing other top hitters from around the league compete for the title of Home Run Derby champion. And while Judge may not be participating this year, there is no doubt that he will continue to be a force to be reckoned with at the plate for years to come.