The MLB’s contract landscape just got a lot more volatile — and the New York Yankees are right in the middle of it.
According to sources close to the situation, Yankees captain and two-time AL MVP Aaron Judge has privately expressed frustration with his current contract in light of Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s stunning 14-year, $500 million extension with the Toronto Blue Jays. Judge, who signed a 9-year, $360 million deal before the 2023 season, is now reportedly considering leaving the team if the Yankees don’t restructure his deal to reflect the shifting market.
“Aaron isn’t asking for anything outrageous,” said a source familiar with Judge’s thinking. “But when a player with less production is making close to what he is annually — and for five extra years — it’s hard not to feel undervalued.”
Guerrero Jr.’s deal, which averages $35.71 million per year, trails Judge’s $40 million AAV — but Judge has vastly outperformed the Blue Jays slugger across nearly every key metric. From OPS (1.013 vs. .861) and WAR (8.62 vs. 4.22 per 162 games), to defensive impact and home runs (321 vs. 160), Judge’s value is undisputed.
Despite those numbers, insiders say Judge believes the length and total value of his deal are now outdated, especially given that he is the face of the Yankees, the league’s most valuable franchise.
“This isn’t just about money,” the source added. “It’s about respect — and the Yankees need to show they’re still willing to invest in the guy who’s carried this team.”
Aaron Judge
The 32-year-old has reportedly not issued a formal trade request or ultimatum but has made it clear to the front office that he expects an adjustment — or he may consider exploring other options when the time comes.
The tension comes as the Yankees try to navigate a season filled with pressure, scrutiny, and rising competition within the AL East — not to mention the looming free agency of several key pieces.
Can the Yankees Afford to Lose Their Captain?
Judge is the centerpiece of New York’s offense, and a leader in the clubhouse. Losing him — or even creating the perception that the front office is undervaluing him — could cause massive ripple effects both on the field and in fan support.
Social media lit up after the news broke. One post went viral within minutes:
“If the Yankees mess this up, they’ll regret it for a generation. Pay Judge. Now.”
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