As excitement builds for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, one of baseball’s most respected former players, David Wright, has offered high praise for Aaron Judge’s selection as the new captain of Team USA.
Wright, a New York Mets legend whose career spanned from 2004 to 2018, is no stranger to the international stage.
Often referred to as the original “Captain America” for his standout performances in past WBC tournaments, Wright is widely admired across fan bases – and his recent comments only cemented that legacy.
When asked in a recent interview about Judge’s leadership role, Wright didn’t hesitate to endorse the Yankees slugger.
“Well, he’s hitting like .900 with 100 homers through April, so you know I don’t have any objection to that. I wish I could hit like that,” he said.
Wright didn’t stop there, shifting into a serious tone to acknowledge the talent now rallying behind Team USA.
“Now, not only are you getting elite hitters… but also those dominant top of the line starters. I think it’s good for baseball, I think it’s good for Team USA, I think it’s good for the World Baseball Classic,” he added.
Wright’s remarks were met with admiration across social media, with fans from both sides of the New York baseball rivalry chiming in.
One fan wrote, “Class personified!! Still very sad (even as a Yankees fan) that injuries derailed a HOF career!”
Another added, “Probably my favorite non-Yankee ever. How could you not love D-Wright?”
Unsurprisingly, there were a few fans who couldn’t get past the Yankees-Mets rivalry. (Hey, who could blame them?)
Although forced into retirement due to spinal stenosis and other injuries, Wright’s grace off the field has kept him in the hearts of many fans – even those who rooted against the Mets.
Aaron Judge, now officially tabbed as Team USA’s captain, is expected to lead a star-studded roster into the 2026 WBC. Among those joining him is standout Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes.
While the full roster has yet to be confirmed, speculation continues to swirl around a potential lineup featuring the likes of Mookie Betts, Bobby Witt Jr., Bryce Harper, Mike Trout, and Kyle Tucker.
MLB has embraced Judge as its modern-day “Captain America,” a title once synonymous with Wright himself.
With Judge stepping into that role, and Wright giving him his full support, fans are now looking ahead to what could be one of the most talent-stacked teams in World Baseball Classic history.
What are your thoughts on Wright putting the New York rivalry aside and giving Judge his flowers???
