Aaron Judge has no desire to leave New York Yankees

Aaron Judge finds himself in a bit of an uncertain place. The New York Yankees‘ outfielder is set to enter free agency at the end of the upcoming season, and to this point, there have not been discussions about a possible extension. As the Yankees typically do not extend their players before free agency, that lack of talks is not a reflection of what he means to the franchise.

The lack of talks has not discouraged Judge either. He has been adamant that he wants to remain with the Yankees, saying that it is his hope to remain with the franchise throughout his entire career.

Aaron Judge wants to be with the New York Yankees for life

Although he has yet to replicate his dominant rookie campaign, Judge has nonetheless emerged as a star. He has produced a 150 OPS+ in his career, belting 158 homers in his 2465 plate appearances. His presence transforms the Yankees’ lineup, providing yet another powerful slugger who can change the game with one swing of the bat.

Judge is more than just his offensive production. He has been vastly underrated defensively, saving 56 runs in right over his six seasons. He has led AL right fielders in runs saved twice, and there is a strong case that he should have won at least one Gold Glove by this point in his career.

That defensive performance, coupled with his production, will make Judge a coveted player should he reach free agency. While the financial aspect is not necessarily a concern for the Yankees, they will have plenty of competition for his services should Judge reach the open market.

This may be a case where the Yankees look to make an exception. Although their other recent extensions have not gone well, and Judge has not always been healthy, this is a risk the Yankees need to take. Otherwise, they may find themselves without their star right fielder, regardless of how much he wants to remain with the franchise for the rest of his career.

Aaron Judge wants to remain with the New York Yankees for the rest of his career. It is time for the Yankees to make that happen.