The New York Yankees received their 2024 American League championship rings this week, just before facing their World Series opponents, the Los Angeles Dodgers, in a rematch. Despite reaching the World Series for the first time since 2009, the Yankees fell short against the Dodgers, who won the best-of-seven series 4-1.
Aaron Judge, the standout Yankees slugger, expressed clear frustration over the significance of the rings, emphasizing that winning the title was the real goal. Speaking to MLB.com, Judge said,
“All I really think is, ‘We lost.’ We could break it down from Game 1 all the way through, but it comes down to, we didn’t get the job done. That’s what really matters, and how you learn from it and try to be a better player from it.” —Aaron Judge, New York Yankees outfielder
Yankees manager Aaron Boone offered a more measured perspective, underscoring the importance of recognizing the achievement despite the disappointment of falling short in the World Series. He commented,
“We want that first place one. At the same time, it is important to acknowledge that we were American League champions. That’s important. That matters.” —Aaron Boone, New York Yankees manager
Judge added that the sting of coming so close to a championship will leave a lasting impression on the team, motivating them for seasons to come.
Giancarlo Stanton Conveys Strong Feelings About the AL Rings
Judge was not alone in his dissatisfaction. Giancarlo Stanton, who has not played since the World Series, also voiced his discontent with the championship rings and delivered a pointed message to his teammates. Stanton stated,
“This isn’t the one we wanted, boys. The one that we want is in front of us. I’d better not see any of you guys wearing these around.” —Giancarlo Stanton, New York Yankees outfielder
Meanwhile, rookie shortstop Anthony Volpe revealed he considered rejecting the ring but ultimately passed it on to his father, viewing it as a symbol of their journey despite the outcome. Other players also weighed in with candid perspectives. Carlos Rodon described the rings as marking them as “first losers,” while Clarke Schmidt referred to them as participation trophies. Schmidt said,
“I don’t want to walk around with this runner-up or second-place ring from when I was with the Yankees, looking back and saying, ‘That was my shining moment,'” Schmitd said. “That’s just the standard here. We’re trying to win the World Series — every single year.” —Clarke Schmidt, New York Yankees pitcher
Yankees Prepare for Dodgers Rematch Amid Mixed Emotions
The Yankees, holding the second-best record in the American League behind the Detroit Tigers, are set to face the Dodgers in a three-game series in Los Angeles starting Friday. The team’s mixed feelings about their AL championship rings reflect the high stakes of their upcoming rematch as they aim to overcome last year’s disappointment and secure the championship title they dearly want.