Yankees Captain Aaron Judge Fretted Over Offseason Moves

Judge, like many fans, was concerned by the team's lack of big-name free agent signings.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 2:31pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge admitted he was frustrated watching other teams make big moves in free agency this offseason while the Yankees were relatively quiet. Judge said it was "brutal" to see top free agents sign elsewhere, and he made his thoughts known to the team's front office. However, Judge is now confident the Yankees are "right where we need to be" heading into the new season.

Why it matters

As the face of the Yankees franchise, Judge's perspective carries a lot of weight. His comments reflect the concerns many fans had about the team's offseason approach and the pressure on the organization to build a World Series contender around their star player.

The details

Judge, who won his third AL MVP award last season, missed time due to an elbow injury but said his arm is now at full strength. He was excited to get back on the field and face hard-throwing prospects like Carlos Lagrange during spring training workouts. The Yankees did make some moves, retaining center fielder Trent Grisham, but Judge felt they needed to be more aggressive in free agency to keep up with other teams improving their rosters.

  • Judge missed 10 games between July 25 and Aug. 5 due to a flexor strain in his right elbow.
  • Judge didn't return to the outfield until Sept. 5 and was throwing at reduced velocity.
  • Judge wasn't sure he would avoid surgery until after the postseason.

The players

Aaron Judge

The captain of the New York Yankees who won his third AL MVP award in 2025.

Carlos Lagrange

A 22-year-old flamethrowing right-hander who ended the 2025 season at Double-A.

Trent Grisham

The Yankees' center fielder who was retained early in the offseason.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was brutal. Early on it was pretty tough to watch. I'm like: Man, we're the New York Yankees. Let's go out there and get the right people.”

— Aaron Judge, New York Yankees Captain

“Yeah, oh, yeah.”

— Aaron Judge, New York Yankees Captain

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.