Aaron Judge Homers Twice in Yankees 9-4 Spring Training Victory Over Phillies at Steinbrenner Field

Aaron Judge delivered a vintage power display at George M. Steinbrenner Field today, blasting two home runs including a towering grand slam to lead the New York Yankees to a dominant 9-4 spring training victory over the Philadelphia Phillies. The 34-year-old superstar showed no signs of slowing down from his record-breaking 2025 season, driving in six runs in a performance that has Yankees fans dreaming of another championship run.

Judge opened the scoring in the second inning with a massive solo home run that traveled an estimated 465 feet over the left-field wall, giving New York an early 1-0 lead. The blast came on a 2-1 fastball from Phillies starter Zack Wheeler, with Judge turning on the pitch and sending it soaring into the Tampa Bay sunshine. "It felt good to get back in there and see some quality pitching," Judge said after the game. "Zack threw me a good fastball, but I was able to turn on it and get it out of here."

The defining moment came in the fifth inning when Judge stepped to the plate with the bases loaded and two outs, facing Phillies reliever Seranthony Dominguez. The crowd of 11,076 rose to their feet as the Yankees captain worked the count to 3-1 before launching a grand slam deep into the right-field seats, capping off a six-run inning that effectively put the game away. The blast was Judge's 62nd career grand slam and demonstrated the clutch hitting ability that has made him one of baseball's most feared hitters in pressure situations.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Judge's approach and preparation during spring training, noting the veteran's commitment to staying in peak physical condition despite entering his 13th major league season. "Aaron looks as good as ever," Boone observed. "His swing is smooth, he's seeing the ball well, and most importantly, he's healthy and ready to go. When he's locked in like this, he can change the complexion of any game with one swing of the bat." The performance continues Judge's impressive spring, as he now has four home runs and 12 RBIs in just eight Grapefruit League games.

The Yankees offense received contributions throughout the lineup, with Giancarlo Stanton adding a two-run double and Jazz Chisholm Jr. scoring twice while reaching base three times. Starting pitcher Gerrit Cole allowed two runs over four innings while striking out six batters, showing the form that made him one of the American League's top starters last season. The well-rounded performance demonstrates the depth and talent that could make New York a legitimate World Series contender once again.

For the Phillies, the loss was disappointing but provided valuable experience for several young players competing for roster spots. Rookie outfielder Johan Rojas had two hits and scored a run, while veteran first baseman Bryce Harper went 1-for-3 with a walk in his continued return from off-season elbow surgery. "Aaron showed today why he's one of the best players in the game," said Phillies manager Rob Thomson. "Those are the kind of swings that can carry a team through October, and we'll need to be ready for that type of production when we face them during the regular season." The Yankees improve to 6-2 in spring training play and will next face the Atlanta Braves on Saturday, while Philadelphia travels to face the Detroit Tigers in Lakeland. Judge's early-season form has generated excitement throughout the Yankees organization as they prepare for what they hope will be a return to championship glory after falling short in recent postseason appearances.