The Tampa Bay Rays had real interest in Aaron Judge when the slugger was a free agent more than a year and a half ago.

At the time, the New York Yankees' main competition to sign Judge was thought to be the San Francisco Giants and San Diego Padres.

Judge ended up signing a nine-year, $360 million deal to remain with the Yankees.

According to the Tampa Bay Times, the Rays were "believed to have been willing to talk about a contract of about 10 years and $300 million."

"It was a very respectful (offer), and I appreciated that they reached out and that they thought enough of me to do that," Judge said of the Rays' interest. "And I respect their team. I respect what they have built here. They have a good club, and their team is tough.

"But it was so hard to think about (playing for them), because I've spent my whole career game-planning against them and trying to beat them."