NEW YORK – In what Yankees manager Aaron Boone calls "the right thing," reigning American League Most Valuable Player Aaron Judge will proudly lead Team USA as captain in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, marking a thrilling milestone in the superstar's already illustrious career.

Boone couldn't contain his excitement when discussing Judge's upcoming role during Monday's appearance on the YES Network's Hot Stove program. The manager emphasized how meaningful this opportunity is for a player of Judge's stature and popularity.

"I'm excited for him," Boone shared warmly. "I think a player of his magnitude and his caliber, as popular as we've seen this tournament become – certainly, last time it was a special, special event."

Judge earned this prestigious honor last April when he became the first player to commit to the roster managed by Mark DeRosa. This will be the slugger's WBC debut, representing a dream fulfilled after he expressed interest in the 2023 Classic but chose to sit out following his historic 62-home run season and subsequent nine-year, $360 million contract with the Yankees.

For Judge, wearing the stars and stripes carries profound meaning beyond baseball. "It's something special, getting a chance to represent our country," Judge reflected at the time of his commitment. "I'm just thinking about all the brave men and women that have fought for this country and laid their lives down for us to get a chance to go out here and play a game. It's a pretty humbling experience."

The World Baseball Classic has evolved into a celebrated showcase of international talent, and Boone recognizes the tremendous value it brings to players and the sport itself. Rather than focusing on concerns, the Yankees manager emphasized the positive impact of competing at such an elite level early in the season.

"You also realize the value that it can provide for these guys to go really compete at this level," Boone explained. "I think in some cases, even some of our pitchers, it forces them into having a better offseason ramp-up to get ready for this."

Judge won't be the only Yankee participating in the global celebration of baseball. Closer David Bednar has also committed to Team USA, while other Yankees including José Caballero, Jazz Chisholm Jr., Fernando Cruz, Camilo Doval, and Austin Wells are expected to represent Panama, Great Britain, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic respectively.

The timing works perfectly with Judge's award season, as he'll claim his third AL MVP trophy on January 24 at the Baseball Writers' Association of America dinner in New York before heading to camp to prepare for the tournament.

Boone expressed confidence that Judge will return to the Yankees energized and ready after what he hopes will be a successful few weeks leading Team USA. "Hopefully it's a few weeks away, and then we get him back," the manager said with optimism.

As baseball's international showcase continues to grow in prestige and popularity, having Aaron Judge as Team USA's captain represents a perfect marriage of elite talent and genuine patriotic pride.