Yankees' Aaron Judge Hits 2 Home Runs in Spring Debut

The slugger is gearing up for the World Baseball Classic.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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New York Yankees star outfielder Aaron Judge hit two home runs in his spring training debut as he prepares to represent the United States in the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

Why it matters

Judge is one of the most dominant power hitters in Major League Baseball, and his performance in spring training will be closely watched as he gets ready for the international tournament.

The details

Playing for the Yankees against the Philadelphia Phillies, Judge launched two solo home runs, showcasing the power that has made him one of the game's premier sluggers. The 31-year-old is coming off a 2025 season in which he hit 46 home runs and drove in 120 runs.

  • The game took place on February 21, 2026.

The players

Aaron Judge

A star outfielder for the New York Yankees and one of the most dominant power hitters in Major League Baseball.

New York Yankees

A professional baseball team based in the Bronx, New York that plays in the American League East division of MLB.

Philadelphia Phillies

A professional baseball team based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that plays in the National League East division of MLB.

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What they’re saying

“Aaron Judge is in midseason form already, and that's great news for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.”

— Joe Girardi, Former MLB Manager (ESPN)

What’s next

Judge will continue his spring training with the Yankees as he prepares to represent the United States in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, which begins on March 8th.

The takeaway

Aaron Judge's impressive spring debut is an early indication that he is primed for a big season and will be a key contributor for the United States in the World Baseball Classic as they look to defend their 2023 title.