The New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers playing in the World Series does not lack for history or star power, with Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani among the standouts.
They once shared the spotlight in the American League, but Ohtani is now leading the Dodgers and likely to win his first career National League MVP Award. Judge, who last won American League MVP in 2022, figures to receive the award for the second time in his career.
Given their once-shared history in the AL and being among baseball’s most feared and talented hitters, Judge and Ohtani already are fielding questions about not only the historic World Series matchup but each other as well.
“I feel like everything is obvious,” answered Judge when asked what he admires about Ohtani that wouldn’t necessarily be so clear.
“Hits for average, hits for power, the speed. Doing what he did this year with the 50 stolen bases, it got talked about a lot, but I don’t think it got talked about enough. He’s an impressive athlete and the best player in the game.
“What an ambassador for this sport.”
Although Ohtani won’t pitch to Judge, the idea of the two competing against one another in some regard excites the Yankees’ All-Star.
“We had our battles throughout the regular season over the years when he was with the Angels. Kind of back and forth, seeing him hit homers over my head, and having some good series. But getting a chance to play on the biggest stage in the biggest moment, I think that’s going to be pretty cool.
“Like I said, he’s such a great ambassador for this game. He plays the game the right way. You see him hustling around the diamond, I think that just sets such a great example for our youth and all the kids that are going to be watching this series. Definitely looking forward to this matchup.”
Aaron Judge & Shohei Ohtani make World Series history
The 2024 World Series represents the first time in MLB history that both teams participating have a player who hit at least 50 home runs during the regular season.
Ohtani slugged 54 home runs en route to establishing the 50-50 club, and Judge led all players with 58 homers this year.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
