LOS ANGELES — This week, Aaron Judge took a moment to reflect when asked about his rival Shohei Ohtani. The Yankees star, whose 2022 MVP season was sandwiched between Ohtani’s two award-winning campaigns, was prompted to share what he admires about Ohtani beyond his obvious abilities.
With a grin, Judge replied, “I feel like everything’s obvious. He hits for average and power. His speed, highlighted by 50 stolen bases this year, is remarkable but perhaps not discussed enough. He’s an incredible athlete, arguably the best player in the game, and a great ambassador for our sport.”
Ohtani expressed gratitude for Judge’s words a day before the World Series, where the two will meet on baseball’s biggest stage.
In most seasons, debate around the title of “best player in the game” would potentially favor Judge, especially since Ohtani had to forego pitching this year. Nevertheless, Ohtani still made a strong case by achieving MLB’s first-ever 50/50 season, racking up 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases, while leading in runs scored and total bases during a remarkable offensive year. He is set to become the first full-time designated hitter to win MVP.
Judge praised Ohtani’s batting approach, stating, “He stays through the zone for such a long time. Even when you think you’ve got him, you don’t.”
While Judge led Ohtani in several offensive categories and closed in on his own AL home run record, Ohtani acknowledged Judge’s impressive 2023 season, especially his ability to maintain a high batting average despite his height.
Although both players have been in a friendly competition for top honors, their relationship is rooted in mutual respect, especially as they now play in separate leagues. They each had strong seasons and are favorites to win MVP in their respective leagues, highlighting the exceptional nature of this World Series matchup.
Both superstars are joined in this Series by other elite players, including Juan Soto, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, which will mark a historic moment if Freeman plays, as it would feature five former MVPs in a World Series.
This World Series between the Dodgers and Yankees is especially notable as it is the first meeting of these two franchises in 43 years. It stands out not only due to the star power involved but also because it has been over a decade since the presumptive MVPs from each league faced off in the World Series.
Judge and Ohtani’s teams are aligned at the top of their leagues, showcasing their powerful offensive strategies and the ability to hit home runs while also excelling in other aspects of the game.
Manager Aaron Boone of the Yankees spoke highly of both players, emphasizing the excitement around having them on such a grand stage. He noted Ohtani’s impressive achievements since returning from Tommy John surgery and acknowledged the pivotal role both players have played in advancing the popularity of baseball.
Despite their respective successes in their careers, this World Series offers both Judge and Ohtani a unique opportunity to define their legacies further. Judge, who has yet to drive the Yankees to a World Series, and Ohtani, who had not previously made the playoffs, both aim to leave their mark in this historic matchup.
“This matchup is special,” Judge remarked. “He’s an incredible player who plays the game the right way and sets a great example for all the young fans watching.”