Aaron Judge (31) of the New York Yankees introduced his relationship with Anthony Rizzo (34). He learned true leadership from a veteran, and was determined to put it into practice as a captain.
In an interview with MLB.com, the official homepage of the major leagues, on the 27th (Korean time), Judge said, “I made it to the postseason with Rizzo, who joined through a trade. Lizzo has been the leader from day one. I learned a lot from Rizzo,” praising Rizzo’s leadership.
Rizzo made his big league debut with the San Diego Padres in 2011, and transferred to the Chicago Cubs the following year to continue his playing career. With his long hitting power, Rizzo has grown into a central hitter and has stood tall as the main character at various awards ceremonies, including the National League first baseman Silver Slugger once (2016) and Gold Glove four times (2016, 2018-2020).
During the 2021 season, Rizzo wore a Yankees pinstripe uniform through a trade. In the 2022 season, in 130 games, he recorded 104 hits, 32 homers, a batting average of 0.224, a slugging percentage of 0.480, and an OPS (on-base percentage + slugging percentage) of 0.818. He led the Yankees’ hitting line.
Outside of the game, he also took care of the players and helped the Yankees lead the way. Even for Judge, Rizzo was a support. The media said, “Judge and Lizzo’s friendship developed quickly. In the process of hitting 62 home runs, Judge became even closer. Rizzo was the one who gave Judge advice when he became a free agent.”
“Every team wanted a jersey,” Rizzo said. I remember having a conversation with him. I wanted to be with Judge. I get along well with my family too. 안전놀이터 We maintain a good relationship,” he said, introducing his relationship with Judge.
Judge now captains the Yankees. I try to put into practice what I have learned by watching Rizzo at close range. I am determined to approach the players first and help them adapt. “I want to get familiar with all the players who have just been called up or who have been traded to the team. Please come anytime if you have any questions or need anything. We are all on the same team, working together.”