New York Yankees are more than just a sports team. They’re a tight-knit community where players learn and grow from one another. With a rich and storied history, the Yankees have been home to some of the most legendary players over the years. From these icons, aspiring players can not only learn from their accomplishments but also from the advice and lessons they’ve picked up along the way.

Aaron Judge, the current captain of the Yankees, shared the impact one of these legends had on him. In an interview, Judge spoke about a valuable lesson he learned from former Yankee captain’s teammate, Mariano Rivera.

Aaron Judge on Mariano Rivera’s advice to him during his early days 

When asked about any philosophies or approaches that Aaron Judge took from Rivera’s time with the Yankees, Judge spoke about a meeting with Mariano Rivera. Rivera spoke to the team about how lucky the players were to be in their shoes and to never take their opportunities for granted.

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Here’s how Judge narrated it, “Wow, I think actually one meeting during that time we had Mariano came out and kind of talked to all of us. You know he kind of hit on some points about, you know enjoy, where you’re at right now is a blessing. Don’t take any of this for granted. You guys in the minor leagues you’re working your way up but don’t take this for granted because there’s millions of kids out there that would give their left arm to be in your shoes.” 

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Rivera also emphasized that the players should enjoy the process, both the good days and the bad, and keep going. He also spoke about the mindset that the Yankees had when they won their championships – they were going to beat every team they faced, no matter who it was. 

How did Aaron Judge apply this advice to his plays? 

Notably, Aaron Judge is the 16th captain of the New York Yankees. And it looks like the advice had a profound impact on the captain. He took the idea of having that winning mindset to heart and has made it a part of his own philosophy. The Yankees slugger believes that as a member of the New York Yankees, they should go into every game with the attitude that they are going to beat their opponents in ballparks. Even if they lose, he knows that they will come back the next day and respond, ready to win. 

The message is simple: enjoy the journey, never take your opportunities for granted, and have the winning mindset that the Yankees are known for.

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