Aaron Judge carries a 1.047 OPS and 16 home runs through 43 games this season, putting him on pace for 60 home runs and squarely in contention to become the first player in New York Yankees history to win three consecutive MVP awards. At 34, the team captain continues to operate on a level that leaves even his own manager searching for words.

"I really think he's just playing a different game than the rest," manager Aaron Boone told ESPN.

New York enters Wednesday's series finale at Baltimore with the AL's second-best record at 27-16 and a league-leading plus-76 run differential, 42 runs better than any other club. The Yankees' quiet offseason drew widespread criticism, but general manager Brian Cashman's decision to retain a roster that won 94 games last season has produced results.

The depth of that roster has allowed the organization to make swift, firm personnel decisions early in the season. Shortstop Anthony Volpe was left in Triple-A after his rehab assignment ended, with Jose Caballero holding the position. Right-hander Luis Gil was optioned back down despite winning the 2024 AL Rookie of the Year award. Veteran outfielder Randal Grichuk was designated for assignment to clear room for Jasson Dominguez.

"We're not going to mess around here with some moves, we're going to do what's best for the team," Judge said. "You appreciate seeing that as a player."

Judge's influence extends well beyond statistics. He spent over 30 minutes on the phone with Volpe after the demotion and recently dedicated an hour in the batting cage working through an early-season slump with third baseman Ryan McMahon.

"It's like the greatest combination of all the vets I've been around," McMahon said.

A World Series title remains the one missing piece for Judge, who has played through four AL Championship Series and one World Series appearance since 2017 without a ring. He insists the drive has never wavered.

"The urgency's been the same since I stepped on the field," Judge told ESPN. "That won't change with me if I'm 42 or if I'm 21."