Baseball season is in full swing, bringing with it a flurry of exciting events. This year, as the New York Yankees get back on their feet without the presence of a powerhouse, they’re also celebrating the 14th edition of HOPE Week. The acronym stands for Helping Others Persevere & Excel. But before kicking things into action with another sports star, captain Aaron Judge had a few words to say.

The reigning AL MVP is on his second IL stint of the season, but it seems like he’s recovering steadily. While he’s unable to play on-the-field, the outfielder is not averse to making media appearances now and then. At a recent one, he opened up about following Derek Jeter with a huge milestone.

To Aaron Judge, following Derek Jeter is an honor unlike any other

The Yankees are a storied franchise with a rich history. Each player that puts on the pinstripes adds to the popular lore. The most recent Yankee Derek Jeter, who don the hat of captain, retired in 2014. Eight years later, Aaron Judge succeeded him. While his teammates already considered him their unofficial leader, the 31-year-old doesn’t take the responsibility lightly.

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One aspect of that heavy crown is following a name like Jeter’s and Judge recently commented on it. Appearing on the TODAY show ahead of HOPE Week’s inauguration, Judge spoke to the hosts about his 16th franchise captain title, first since Jeter.

Standing next to Gerrit Cole and Aaron Boone, Aaron Judge said, “It’s an exciting honor that I’m blessed and humbled to be part of that list, the great Yankee captains,” he said. Both Judge and Jeter are icons in the Bronx that have added their name to the vast history of this club, whatever their victories or struggles.

This year, they are not only treating fans to baseball but also giving back to the community once again. After all, it’s all about HOPE, and an NFL star helped the team kick things off on Monday.

Damar Hamlin is one of the honorees in the New York Yankees’ HOPE Week

Social media was abuzz with the one of NFL’s biggest stars arriving in the Bronx. When he suddenly collapsed as the result of a collision earlier this year, Damar Hamlin was only revived by paramedics immediately performing CPR. Since HOPE is all about focusing on an individual/family worthy of recognition, the NFL star was brought in to share his story along with a few others.

Adding to the eventful day, several Yankees engaged in CPR training with athletic trainers using manikins. Additionally, Hamlin later showcased his skills by throwing out a ceremonial pitch against the Baltimore Orioles.

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Over the next five days, this exceptionally educational week will persist in illuminating individuals.