This off-season, the buzz is undeniably all about Juan Soto. However, even if Soto dons the iconic Yankees pinstripes, Aaron Judge remains the face of the franchise and the city. The reigning American League MVP has a fan base that transcends baseball. Just last month, Judge clinched his second MVP award—a testament to his on-field dominance—even after a postseason where he struggled at the plate. Let’s face it: without Judge, the Yankees might not have made it as far as they did.

But Judge’s appeal doesn’t end on the diamond. His larger-than-life persona extends to unexpected corners, including New York City’s voting booths. And that too for the state supreme court seat! While Judge likely has no plans to swap his pinstripes for a judge’s robe, this quirky electoral moment underscores just how beloved and influential he is in the Big Apple.

Aaron Judge dominates the ballot box

In a surprising twist, Aaron Judge received 63 write-in votes during last month’s NYC general elections for state supreme court seats. The unusual nod didn’t go unnoticed, with NYC Council Minority Leader Joe Borelli cheekily remarking, “Given the state of our judiciary, I don’t think having Aaron Judge on the bench is the worst idea.”

Aaron Judge, however, wasn’t alone on this list. He was placed right along with other write-ins like Donald Trump, Mickey Mouse, and Donald Duck. There was also Bruce Wayne and Jesus Christ, Taylor Swift, and even the late Governor Mario Cuomo. Hence, it is proved that New Yorkers don’t hold back when making a statement, even if it’s a protest!

While some voters had fun with their write-ins, experts like political consultant Hank Sheinkoof think that there is a deeper message. “Why Aaron Judge for Judge? These are protest votes,” Sheinkopf says. According to him, the voters are frustrated with the judicial system and hence choose humor to voice their disdain.

However, whether for homers or humor, Aaron Judge continues to be a favorite. Now he is even a ballot box legend! But Aaron Judge wasn’t the only one from MLB making the list. Even Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, and Francisco Lindor found themselves in the situation.

Anthony Volpe inspired by Aaron Judge

Aaron Judge’s influence extends far beyond his fan base—it resonates deeply within the Yankees’ clubhouse. For young players like 23-year-old shortstop Anthony Volpe, sharing the dugout and locker room with legends like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton is an invaluable experience.

Recently, Volpe opened up on The Roommates Show, reflecting on what it’s like to be around icons of the game. He highlighted how players of Judge’s caliber don’t just lead with their stats but also with their presence and mentorship. For a budding star, the opportunity to learn from such seasoned players is a once-in-a-lifetime privilege, and it’s clear that Judge’s legacy extends beyond his bat and glove. It’s about inspiring the next generation of Yankees to carry the torch.

Volpe further credited Aaron Judge and Stanton for their self-awareness and confidence. These are the qualities Volpe believes are key to being consistent in the field. “Watching them every single day, I think what stands out is how self-aware they are—of their body, of where they’re at. That self-awareness helps them make adjustments quicker, and I think it’s how they stay consistent,” mentioned the New York Yankees shortstop.

Volpe also explained that Judge and Stanton could detect even the smallest issue and fine-tune their performances. This, for him, is “cool to see.” Well, when one is playing so long and so extensively as them, they do learn the ropes of it, like the back of their hand. For Volpe, sharing the locker room with such icons is a masterclass. It’s a privilege that will only fuel his growth on the field.