Aaron Judge Honors Former Teammate at Yankees Home Opener

Yankees star pays tribute to longtime outfielder Brett Gardner during traditional fan roll call.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:35pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors, featuring bold, sweeping brushstrokes that capture the energy and emotion of a baseball player in a dramatic, kneeling pose.A dramatic gesture of respect and camaraderie between two longtime Yankees teammates.NYC Today

During the New York Yankees' home opener on Friday, star outfielder Aaron Judge took a moment to honor his former teammate Brett Gardner by flexing and kneeling towards the Bleacher Creatures section during the first-inning Roll Call tradition.

Why it matters

The gesture was a touching tribute from one Yankees legend to another, as Gardner had been a fixture in the Bronx for 14 seasons before retiring after the 2025 campaign. The two players were teammates for several years and developed a close friendship, making Judge's public acknowledgment of Gardner all the more meaningful for fans.

The details

As the Bleacher Creatures went through their customary roll call of Yankees players, chanting out each name, Judge turned to the section, bent a knee, and flexed both arms in a show of respect and appreciation for Gardner. The two outfielders played side-by-side in the Yankees' outfield for many years, forming a strong bond both on and off the field.

  • The home opener took place on Friday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Aaron Judge

A star outfielder for the New York Yankees who has played for the team since 2017.

Brett Gardner

A longtime Yankees outfielder who played for the team from 2008 to 2025 before retiring.

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What they’re saying

“Aaron and I have been through a lot together over the years. I'm honored he took the time to recognize me like that in front of the fans.”

— Brett Gardner, Former Yankees Outfielder

The takeaway

Judge's gesture towards his former teammate Gardner was a heartwarming display of camaraderie and respect between two longtime Yankees, showcasing the strong bonds that can form between players over the course of a career.