Few names in modern baseball carry the weight of Aaron Judge. The towering outfielder for the New York Yankees has not only redefined what it means to be a slugger but also reshaped conversations around the MVP award itself. Every season Judge takes the field, he brings with him a storm of media coverage, fan debates, and statistical marvels. In 2025, as he continues to dominate, the conversation about whether Judge deserves to be the American League MVP has reached new heights.

Jack Curry, veteran analyst for YES Network, has been vocal about Judge’s candidacy. For Curry and many others, Judge isn’t just another superstar—he’s the very embodiment of what the Most Valuable Player should represent: elite performance, leadership, consistency, and the ability to lift his team in critical moments.

This article dives deep into Judge’s MVP case, exploring his statistics, leadership, comparisons to rivals, and the broader meaning of “value” in baseball. By the end, one thing becomes clear: Aaron Judge isn’t just a contender—he’s redefining the conversation.

The Numbers Behind Aaron Judge’s 2025 Season

Offensive Dominance

Aaron Judge has always been a statistical juggernaut, and the 2025 season is no different. His home run totals once again place him at the top of the league. Beyond power, his OPS (On-base Plus Slugging), WAR (Wins Above Replacement), and clutch hitting metrics showcase his all-around dominance.

Clutch Performance

Numbers are important, but timing matters too. Judge has consistently delivered in high-leverage situations: late innings, tie games, or when the Yankees desperately need a spark. These moments are where MVP cases are built—not just in volume of production, but in impact when it matters most.

Consistency at the Plate

While some sluggers go through streaks of highs and lows, Judge has maintained a steady offensive output throughout the season. This reliability is key in keeping the Yankees competitive in a tough AL East division.

Leadership Beyond Numbers

The Captain’s Role

As the captain of the Yankees, Judge carries responsibilities beyond swinging the bat. He is the clubhouse leader, setting the tone for younger players, bridging gaps between veterans and rookies, and maintaining discipline during tough stretches.

The Face of the Franchise

Judge’s influence extends into branding, ticket sales, and fan engagement. His presence in the lineup draws crowds, excites television audiences, and keeps the Yankees in national conversations. For an MVP, visibility and influence matter.

Leading by Example

Whether it’s his offseason training regimen or his calm demeanor during slumps, Judge’s leadership is seen in the way he models professionalism. For many teammates, he isn’t just a captain—he’s a blueprint for success.

The Meaning of “Value” in MVP

MVP: Best Player or Most Valuable?

The MVP debate often boils down to this question: is the award for the “best player statistically” or the “most valuable player to his team’s success”? Judge sits at the crossroads of both. His stats are elite, and his role in the Yankees’ lineup is irreplaceable.

Impact on Team Performance

Without Judge, the Yankees’ offense looks completely different. Pitchers approach the rest of the lineup more aggressively when Judge isn’t present, which shows just how much his presence dictates the flow of games.

Defining “Value” in 2025

Jack Curry emphasizes that Judge embodies the true spirit of MVP—not just numbers, but intangibles: leadership, pressure moments, and the ability to change the course of games.

Comparisons Within the League

The Raleigh Comparison

Analysts like Jack Curry have noted Cal Raleigh’s strong season for the Mariners, particularly as a catcher who impacts both pitching staffs and hitting. Yet Curry insists Judge’s influence is greater: while Raleigh excels, Judge elevates an entire franchise.

Standing Above the Rest

Even when compared to other sluggers or rising stars, Judge’s ability to consistently combine power, average, and leadership separates him. Few players in baseball today balance all three.

Historical Context: Judge Among Yankees Legends

Following in Mantle and Jeter’s Footsteps

The Yankees are no strangers to MVP-caliber talent. Judge’s performance echoes legends like Mickey Mantle and Derek Jeter, blending superstardom with leadership. Winning MVP would further cement his legacy among these icons.

Judge’s 2022 Season as a Benchmark

Fans still remember Judge’s record-breaking 62-home-run season in 2022. That year set the standard for his career, and every subsequent season has been measured against it. 2025 shows he is still operating at historic levels.

Media and Fan Influence

Media Narratives

Sports media has a major role in MVP debates. Judge, as the face of the Yankees, receives massive coverage, but with coverage comes scrutiny. Analysts like Jack Curry push narratives that frame Judge as the MVP, influencing public opinion and possibly even voters.

Fan Passion

Yankees fans are some of the most passionate in baseball. Their backing of Judge intensifies the MVP debate, creating momentum around his candidacy. Social media amplifies these conversations, keeping Judge in the spotlight daily.

The Counterarguments: Why Some Might Hesitate

Injury Concerns

Judge’s history with injuries occasionally makes voters cautious. Can an MVP be someone who misses significant time? In 2025, Judge’s availability has been better, strengthening his case.

The New York Bias Debate

Some argue Yankees players benefit from market size and media attention. Critics might claim Judge’s candidacy is inflated due to playing in New York. However, his numbers and leadership silence most of those doubts.

Expert Voices on Judge’s MVP Case

Jack Curry’s Argument

Curry has been clear: Judge’s case isn’t just about stats. It’s about his all-around influence. For Curry, Judge checks every box of the MVP criteria.

Other Analysts Weigh In

Many national analysts echo similar points, highlighting Judge’s unique combination of size, skill, and leadership. Few players in history have embodied “most valuable” as completely.

The Legacy Factor

Judge’s Place in Yankees History

Winning another MVP would place Judge alongside the greatest Yankees ever, adding another chapter to his Hall of Fame trajectory.

Redefining Modern MVP

Judge may also redefine what voters look for in MVPs—pushing the award away from pure statistics and toward a holistic view of impact.

Conclusion: Aaron Judge, The Clear MVP

At the heart of the MVP debate lies one truth: Aaron Judge is irreplaceable to the Yankees. His dominance at the plate, leadership in the clubhouse, and ability to carry an entire franchise make him the ultimate embodiment of “Most Valuable Player.” While rivals like Cal Raleigh shine in their own right, Judge’s combination of talent, leadership, and impact sets him apart.

For Jack Curry and countless fans, the case is closed: Aaron Judge should be MVP.