Aaron Judge interview: Baseball fans convinced he’s leaving Yankees

New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge gave an uncomfortable interview with ESPN in which he addressed his future at the All-Star Game.

When I say addressed, I really mean was forced to address.

Judge spoke with ESPN’s Marly Rivera on the All-Star red carpet before the game. Rivera asked Judge what he would say to kids in New York who might be upset that the All-Star could leave the Big Apple when the season is over (yes, really, it was that uncomfortable).

His answer was as calculated as can be.

I mean…seriously what is Judge supposed to say there? That was as good of an answer as he could have given in the moment. Yet, it’s not nearly enough for baseball fans who expect the world from the AL MVP frontrunner and face of the Yankees franchise.

Yankees: Aaron Judge put in uncomfortable, no-win situation

Reporters are getting bold these days, and ESPN’s Marly Rivera didn’t shy away from a popular talking point. Just a day after Juan Soto won the Home Run Derby, and moments later was approached by Buster Olney to talk about his contract situation, Rivera seemingly one-upped him.

This isn’t to say Rivera isn’t good at her job. However, I’m not sure what else Judge was supposed to say there, other than the usual with a smile.

Baseball fans think differently, though, and are convinced he’s leaving the Bronx.

https://twitter.com/AstrosOptimism2/status/1549525284612882433

https://twitter.com/JoeyMountains/status/1549523968314339328

There were many, many more.

Judge turned down a huge contract before the season, as the Yankees valued him at $230 million over eight years. He bet on himself, and that has paid off so far. He’s the AL MVP frontrunner in a league that features Shohei Ohtani, Jose Ramirez, Rafael Devers and Yordan Alvarez.

He will be paid by some team — it’s just a matter of where.