Aaron Judge Motivated By and Not Afraid of Dodger Stadium Return

“I’ll try not to think about it. I’ve got a job to do on the field. I’m going to try to make every play I can,” Judge said. “I don’t remember looking at what they changed. Hopefully, it’s good changes. Nobody else has gotten hurt out there, so I’ll try not to think about it because if you try to play with fear, you’re not going to be your best.”

The Dodgers supposedly addressed the exposed area where Judge injured himself after the accident. Judge said he might scope out the field during batting practice.

“I usually like to check out the dimensions, check out the wall, anything new, just how the ball bounces off it. Each park is so different. I’ll definitely try to get out there and see what’s going on.”

Aaron Boone was asked about moving Judge’s defensive position this weekend to avoid injury. He dismissed it as the ridiculous question it was.

The Dodgers in the World Series embarrassed the Yankees last season, losing 4-1. Their Game 5 defensive meltdown was a nightmare, and one that some Dodgers used to take shots at the Yankees all winter. Former reliever Joe Kelly was still taking shots at Gerrit Cole and Boone this spring. Chris Taylor, who basically said the Yankees pooped down their legs, said he did “mean any offense,” by it when asked by The Athletic’s Brendan Kuty.

Judge and the Yankees have taken the Dodgers’ taunting and comments in stride. They have not made any emotional reactions or declarations. But quietly, Judge has talked about unfinished business in October. This year, however, the Yankees captain said they start some of that work in May.

“I am excited to see how we match up with them,” Judge said.