Yankees star enjoying this aspect of the WBC more than World Series: ‘It’s bigger and better’

Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge has noticed one difference between playing in the World Series and playing in this year’s World Baseball Classic: the crowd. After Team USA defeated the Dominican Republic 2-1 on Sunday night to advance to Tuesday’s WBC championship game, Judge was asked about the passionate crowds that have been a hallmark of WBC play, especially at loanDepot Park in Miami. “I want to say it’s been bigger than the World Series,” Judge said via Dodgers Nation host Doug McKain. “I would say the crowd here and the crowd we had when we played against Mexico, it’s bigger and better than the World Series. The passion that these fans have, representing their country, representing some of their favorite players, there’s nothing like it.” Judge said the crowds reminded him of what he envisioned as a child, imagining himself in high-stakes situations with loud cheering. “As a kid, I was in my backyard playing Wiffle Ball,” Judge said. “This is the moment you dream of — big spots and big situations. It gives me chills right now thinking about how special that was. I try to take a moment every game to kind of look around, appreciate the crowd and appreciate the moment. It’s just a blessing to go out there and do our thing.” Judge, the Team USA captain, is trying to take advantage of the atmosphere. In six WBC games, he is batting .261 with two home runs and five RBIs. Judge and the rest of Team USA will await the winner of the Venezuela-Italy semifinal scheduled for Monday night. The U.S. is looking for its first WBC championship since 2017. The last time they were in the championship game was in 2023, when they lost to Japan 3-2.