Look: Anthony Volpe follows Aaron Judge’s lead in Yankees debut

Anthony Volpe has taken inspiration from Aaron Judge, showing just how much respect and appreciation he has for the Yankees.

Aaron Judge has made himself a Yankees legend, one of the most beloved players in franchise history. He did it by mashing countless homers, including a historic, AL-record 62 last season. He did it by spurning his hometown San Francisco Giants in free agency and deciding to re-sign with the Yankees this winter for nine more years. He did this not just with his play but by demonstrating again and again that he understands what it means to be a member of his historic franchise and cherishes the opportunity.

For example, kissing the Yankees logo on his jersey after a monster playoff home run, a move that was copied on opening day by rookie shortstop Anthony Volpe.

Like Aaron Judge, Anthony Volpe knows what it means to be a member of the Yankees

Volpe is making his pro debut today but he’s already demonstrated a deep love and respect for the Yankees. He wasn’t a lock to make the Opening Day roster but he left it all on the field in Spring Training, giving the team no choice but to install him as the starting shortstop. The day after receiving the news, he was the first to arrive at the stadium and was in uniform long before anyone else.

Volpe also asked Brett Gardner (not exactly an all-time great) for permission to wear his No. 11 before making the swap from No. 77, which he wore in Spring Training. He clearly understands what it means to put on that jersey, to take the field in front of these fans for Opening Day of a new season.

He already won the hearts of these fans before the season even started. Once he actually starts swinging his bat, expect that love affair to deepen.