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Yankees' Cody Bellinger Shares Aaron Judge Take on Monday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Joey Mistretta | Last updated Feb 16, 2026 7:35 PM ET

Cody Bellinger and the New York Yankees agreed to a reunion this offseason in MLB free agency. Bellinger is excited to play for the Yankees again. Additionally, he is ready to chase a World Series alongside three-time MVP Aaron Judge.

"He (Judge) is everything that this organization is, you know what I mean? He really carries everything to the highest degree," Bellinger said on Monday, via Yankees Videos. "You just follow, you follow his lead and you understand the greatness that's in front of you... Chatting with him, you would never know he's won three MVPs. But just the talent he is and the kind of guy he is in that locker room is very special.

"We're all in this together. Want to win it for him and for New York."

Judge is one of the most well-respected players in all of MLB. Even fans who can't stand the Yankees seem to respect Judge. He is an elite baseball player who implements a humble approach to the game.

Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger Looking to Lead Yankees

New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) talks to left fielder Cody Bellinger (35) Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Bellinger's first season with the Yankees in 2025 was a success. During the '25 campaign, the left-handed slugger slashed .272/.334/.480 across 152 games played. He also hit 29 home runs. Bellinger ultimately finished 14th in American League MVP voting.

Judge, meanwhile, won the AL MVP Award after hitting .331/.457/.688 -- leading the league in each of those specific categories (batting average, OBP, slugging). Judge also led the league with 137 runs scored, and he added 53 home runs and 114 RBI.

Judge is the best player in the American League without question. However, good teams need a mixture of all-around star-power and depth. Bellinger is a respectable supporting star on the roster. He may not record numbers that are on Judge's level, but Bellinger is a guy who is going to help matters nonetheless.

The duo will lead the way in 2026. They will obviously need help from the rest of the roster, but Judge and Bellinger will set the tone.

Judge is already a three-time MVP and is likely on track for the Hall of Fame, but adding a World Series ring obviously would help cement his legacy in New York. Bellinger wants to help the Yankees win the Fall Classic both for Judge and for the city of New York.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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