Aaron Judge secured his third American League MVP Award on Saturday night at the 101st New York Baseball Writers’ Association of America dinner, surrounded by his family, teammates, and the rich legacy of the New York Yankees. Judge’s outstanding 2025 season and close support system—especially his wife Samantha—played crucial roles in earning him this prestigious honor.
The evening became particularly memorable when Judge’s former teammate Anthony Rizzo delivered a heartfelt introduction, highlighting the behind-the-scenes qualities that define Judge as much as his on-field excellence.
Record-Breaking Season Highlights Judge’s Dominance
In 2025, Aaron Judge shattered numerous records while achieving career-best numbers. He posted a .331 batting average, launched 53 home runs, and drove in 114 runs. Judge also led all MLB players in key statistics such as on-base percentage (.457), slugging percentage (.688), OPS (1.145), runs scored (137), walks (124), and extra-base hits (85).
This year marked Judge’s first batting title, making him the tallest player in Major League Baseball history at 6-foot-7 to earn that distinction. He joined the elite company of Mickey Mantle (1956) and Jimmie Foxx (1938) as one of only three players to win a batting title while hitting over 50 home runs.
Judge’s 53 home runs were the most by any batting champion ever, and his accomplishment of four seasons with 50 or more homers places him among the game’s all-time power hitters. By surpassing Yankees legends Yogi Berra and Joe DiMaggio, he climbed to fourth on the franchise’s all-time home run list.
The MVP race was intensely competitive, with Judge receiving 17 first-place votes and totaling 355 points from Baseball Writers’ Association of America members. Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh trailed closely, earning 13 first-place votes and 335 points.
Anthony Rizzo Highlights the Intangible Qualities Behind Judge’s Success
Former Yankees teammate Anthony Rizzo shifted focus from statistics to character during his introduction. Rizzo emphasized how difficult it is to perform under the pressure-filled spotlight in New York, where every action is magnified.
Playing in New York is different,
Rizzo said.
The lights shine brighter, the pressure is heavier, every moment is magnified, and not everyone’s built for this stage. You’ve seen a lot of guys fold under these big lights. And what he does every day with his selfless leadership is something that I admire.
Rizzo also praised Judge’s remarkable ability to treat everyone with respect, from parking attendants to new players adjusting to the demands of the Yankees.
Anytime you have an interaction with Aaron Judge, he makes you feel like you’re the biggest person in the room,
Rizzo explained.
And that’s such a special feat to have as a superstar in this game.
He further lauded Judge’s resilience, highlighting how the superstar sustains a steady mindset regardless of his performance on any given day.
whether he’s four for four or oh for four,
Rizzo noted.
the superstars, they go through their own grind and they struggle a lot more than people think.
Judge Expresses Gratitude, Emphasizing Family Support
During his acceptance speech, Aaron Judge expressed deep appreciation for his family, focusing especially on his wife Samantha’s unwavering support. He described her as his “hitting coach” and “therapist,” crediting her with being a constant source of strength.
The couple welcomed their daughter, Nora Rose, on January 27, 2025. Judge had missed the 2024 BBWAA dinner to support Samantha during the final stages of her pregnancy, underlining the importance of family in his life.
Giving me the greatest gift of all, which is our beautiful daughter, Nora, that’s been incredible to be a father,
Judge said.
It didn’t matter if I’m four for four or oh for four, coming home and seeing their smiling faces is that’s what it’s all about. It really puts it in perspective.
He also thanked his parents, Wayne and Patty, for their continuous encouragement and shared a guiding principle from his father:
If what you did yesterday still seems big today, then you haven’t done anything today.
It doesn’t matter if you pitch a complete game, shut out with four for four the night before, won the game for your team,
Judge explained.
That’s in the past. It’s about what you can do today. How are you going to show up today?
Judge Acknowledges Fans and Yankees Organization in Closing
Judge concluded by thanking Yankees ownership, teammates, coaching, training staff, and the passionate fans whose high expectations drive players to excel.
I think that’s what brings the best out of us and brings the best out of me,
Judge said.
A lot of you save up to come to one game to watch us play, watch me play. And that’s what it’s all about. I want to give you guys the best and put on a show for you guys.
Walking off the stage with his third MVP trophy, Aaron Judge reinforced his status not only as a formidable talent but also as a respected leader and beloved figure in Yankees history. His 2025 season and the personal dedication evident behind his achievements suggest he will continue to be a central figure for the team and Major League Baseball in the years ahead.
