New York Yankees coach hints at Aaron Judge's new talent which could leave his opponents in the dust
Aaron Judge can hit with power, put the ball in play, field and throw. One aspect of his game that has been questioned over his MLB career is his speed. Judge, however, is deceptively fast. Due to his stature and broad physique, some might mistake him for being slow and uncoordinated. It could not be farther from the truth.
The New York Yankees outfielder is on a mission to improve his speed and baserunning. The newly-named captain has returned to spring training looking lean and fit.
Since early 2021, Judge has made a concerted effort to work with Matt Talarico. The Yankees' baserunning coach has been impressed by Judge's progress:
"It’s not ‘fast for a big guy.’ It’s fast"
According to a recent article in Sports Illustrated, Talarico credited Judge's work ethic, dedication, and technique for his improved baserunning and speed.
Yankees Baserunning Coordinator Matt Talarico discusses the 2023 Spring Training mindset, Aaron Judge on the bases, and more with @M_Marakovits.
#YANKSonYES https://t.co/3GRCmKiR1I
"Yankees Baserunning Coordinator Matt Talarico discusses the 2023 Spring Training mindset, Aaron Judge on the bases, and more with @M_Marakovits #YANKSonYES" - YES Network
When asked whether he was surprised by how well Judge moved, Talarico responded with an emphatic "No, I'm not...he's a good runner."
Aaron Judge made a concerted effort to improve his baserunning last season
It may be surprising to hear that Judge ranked second on the New York Yankees roster in stolen bases in 2022. Only Isiah Kiner finished with more.
Working with Matt Talarico seems to be paying off for the 2022 American League MVP. Last season, he finished with 16 stolen bases. Prior to that, he failed to reach double-digits over his six-year MLB career.
The only AL/NL player to better both Aaron Judge's 39 homers and 10 steals in his team's first 100 games was Babe Ruth 101 years ago. 😮 https://t.co/R48De6Kkli
"The only AL/NL player to better both Aaron Judge's 39 homers and 10 steals in his team's first 100 games was Babe Ruth 101 years ago." - Codify
To put things in perspective, Judge finished with more steals than Freddie Freeman, Tim Anderson, and Bo Bichette. Nolan Arenado, Gavin Lux, and J.P. Crawford total stolen bases combined for fewer steals than Judge.
MLB's new rules should assist Judge in reaching another double-digit season. With bigger bases and limited pick-off attempts, we should see an increase in overall stolen bases.
He may be known for his power, but Judge is quietly working his way to becoming the ultimate five-tool player.