Aaron Judge Homers Twice in Yankees 12-6 Spring Training Rout of Red Sox
Aaron Judge announced his readiness for the 2026 season in emphatic fashion on Monday, homering twice and driving in five runs as the New York Yankees demolished the Boston Red Sox 12-6 in a Grapefruit League clash at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa.
The Yankees captain was locked in from his first at-bat, launching a three-run homer off Red Sox starter Kutter Crawford in the second inning that traveled an estimated 462 feet to left-center field. Judge added a two-run blast in the fifth inning, this time taking reliever Garrett Whitlock deep to right field for his second spring training home run.
"I feel really good right now," Judge said after the game. "My timing is where I want it to be, and I'm seeing the ball well. Spring training is about getting ready for the season, but it's always fun to put on a show against the Red Sox, no matter what time of year it is."
The offensive explosion wasn't limited to Judge, as Gleyber Torres contributed three hits and two RBIs, while Anthony Rizzo added a solo home run in the seventh inning. The Yankees collected 16 hits against Red Sox pitching, showing the kind of offensive depth that could make them formidable in 2026.
Yankees starter Carlos Rodon looked sharp in his four innings of work, allowing just two runs on five hits while striking out six batters. The left-hander's fastball sat consistently in the mid-90s, and his slider showed the sharp break that made him so effective last season.
The victory moves the Yankees to 4-2 in spring training play and provides early optimism for a team with championship aspirations. Judge's hot start is particularly encouraging given his importance to the Yankees' lineup and his goal of leading the team back to the World Series. With just three weeks remaining before Opening Day, performances like this suggest Judge and the Yankees are ready to make a serious run at their 28th championship.
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