San Francisco Giants pitcher Logan Webb expressed his enthusiasm about finally sharing the field with New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge during the World Baseball Classic (WBC) held in Houston. This marks the first time Webb has been able to play alongside Judge in an international tournament, a moment he finds especially significant after previously trying to recruit Judge to the Giants.
Webb Starts for Team USA as Judge Sparks Early Lead
At Daikin Park in Houston, Webb earned the starting pitching assignment for Team USA’s opening game against Brazil on Friday. Before Webb even took the mound, Judge energized the home crowd by launching a towering home run early in the game. After an infield single by shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and a strikeout from first baseman Bryce Harper, Judge crushed a 3-0 pitch 405 feet into left-center field, putting the U.S. ahead 2-0. Major League Baseball recorded the speed of the hit at an impressive 106.3 miles per hour off the bat.
Webb Appreciates the Experience of Watching Judge’s Batting Live
Webb expressed his admiration for Judge’s skills and said it was a privilege to watch the slugger’s power in person.
“I saw him hit a homer in spring, but then saw it yesterday. The guy’s incredible,”
Webb told Mirror U.S. Sports. He added,
“I mean, just about everything he does is pretty cool. So it was fun to be in the same dugout watching that instead of either on the mound or in the other dugout.”
This close proximity to one of baseball’s premier hitters adds an exciting dimension to Webb’s WBC experience.
The Giants’ Attempt to Sign Aaron Judge in 2022
Despite their current alliance on Team USA, Webb and Judge were nearly Major League Baseball teammates. During the 2022 offseason, the San Francisco Giants made a concerted effort to acquire Judge as a free agent. Webb was involved in the Giants’ campaign to woo the Yankees star, even reaching out to Judge personally to encourage the move.
“I was there when we had a dinner plan for him,”
Webb recalled.
“He flew in, I texted him a little bit throughout that process. I probably texted him too much. He was probably annoyed by me a little bit.”
For a brief moment, there was excitement that Judge might join the Giants when speculation spread.
False Report of Judge Joining Giants Creates Brief Buzz
On December 6, 2022, rumors intensified when New York Post reporter Jon Heyman mistakenly posted a tweet stating:
“Arson Judge appears headed to Giants.”
The report, featuring a typographical error of Judge’s name, fueled fan hopes in San Francisco. However, the news was incorrect as Judge ultimately re-signed with the Yankees on a massive nine-year, $360 million contract—the same contract the Giants had offered.
Webb Acknowledges Judge’s Choice to Stay with the Yankees
Reflecting on Judge’s decision, Webb remains understanding and supportive.
“I thought I was a big part of that,”
Webb said about the Giants’ recruitment efforts.
“Obviously, he chose differently. But, you know, I don’t think he can turn down being the captain of the New York Yankees.”
While Webb obviously would have welcomed Judge on the Giants, he respects the iconic status Judge holds in New York.
Friendly Banter and Mutual Respect Between Webb and Judge in the Clubhouse
Despite some light-hearted teasing between them, Webb emphasized his happiness for Judge.
“We’ve joked about it. I think I’ve called him ‘Arson’ a couple times,”
Webb quipped.
“But, yeah, I couldn’t be more happy for him. I obviously wish he was on my team, but I’m happy for him.”
This camaraderie highlights the unique bond these two elite baseball players share as teammates representing the United States on the international stage.
Implications for the World Baseball Classic and Beyond
The partnership between Logan Webb and Aaron Judge adds significant star power to Team USA as it competes at the World Baseball Classic through March 17. Webb’s pitching prowess combined with Judge’s offensive firepower promises to make the U.S. a formidable contender. Their collaboration not only excites fans but also demonstrates the unique opportunities international tournaments create for rival players to unite under one banner. As the tournament progresses, the duo’s performances could be crucial to Team USA’s pursuit of the championship.
