The New York Yankees continue to ride one of the hottest bats in baseball this season, but fans hoping to see Aaron Judge light up the 2025 Home Run Derby will once again be left disappointed. Despite being in MVP form, Judge has firmly closed the door on a return to the midsummer slugfest—unless one very specific condition is met.
The 32-year-old slugger, who dazzled fans with a memorable win in the 2017 Home Run Derby during his rookie year, made it clear he has no plans to participate in this year’s event at Truist Park in Atlanta. When pressed on Thursday, Judge offered a now-familiar refrain: “Nope. Same answer. Only if I’m talking about it here [in New York].” Judge said, according to Newsday.
His stance is nothing new. Judge has repeatedly stated that the only scenario in which he’d consider entering the Derby again would be if the All-Star Game is hosted in New York—a scenario unlikely to materialize anytime soon.
Why is Judge sitting this one out?
Judge’s relationship with the Home Run Derby has always been complicated. While his 2017 performance remains iconic, the aftermath of that event took a physical toll. Later that season, Judge revealed the Derby aggravated a shoulder injury suffered during a wall collision, ultimately requiring surgery.
Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees connects on his fourth inning double to right field against the Cleveland Guardians at Yankee Stadium on June 05, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
With his long-term health and performance in mind, skipping the event has become a routine decision. It’s a testament to how players now weigh the spectacle of the Derby against potential risks. For Judge, that cost-benefit analysis has never wavered: no New York, no Derby.
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When will New York host again?
Fans holding out hope for a local Derby appearance may be in for a long wait. The Yankees haven’t hosted an All-Star Game since 2008, and with the New York Mets having welcomed the festivities in 2013, the city is low in the current rotation.
The 2026 All-Star Game is already set for Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, while Wrigley Field in Chicago is expected to be awarded the 2027 edition. With the Toronto Blue Jays long overdue for a game and recently completing major renovations to Rogers Centre, they’re in strong position to land the 2028 showcase. That timeline likely pushes a New York return into the 2030s—by which time Judge could be nearing the twilight of his career.
Judge is locked in on the season
While he won’t be launching balls into the Atlanta night this July, Judge is still putting on a nightly power display. As of early June, he’s slashing an astounding .392/.493/.758 with 21 home runs—good for third in the majors behind Cal Raleigh and Shohei Ohtani. He currently leads MLB in batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging, solidifying his case as the most dangerous hitter in the game.
That kind of dominance is exactly why fans want him in the Derby—and why he’s choosing to stay focused on the bigger picture. With championship aspirations and his health as a priority, Judge has little reason to revisit the Derby stage.
What to expect in Atlanta?
The 2025 Home Run Derby is scheduled for Monday, July 14 at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. No players have officially committed to the event, though fan speculation is ramping up as All-Star voting gets underway.
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And while Judge’s absence is now expected, it only adds to the intrigue of who will step into the spotlight. One thing’s certain: Judge will be watching—but not swinging.
