Judge earns 2nd straight All-MLB First Team selection

Aaron Judge holds the cards for a decision that could make an even more seismic mark on this year’s Winter Meetings. But for now, the slugger has claimed a well-deserved spot on the All-MLB First Team.

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Judge, the Dodgers’ Mookie Betts and the Angels’ Mike Trout are the outfielders on the All-MLB First Team, as selected by fans and a panel of experts, before the teams were announced on Monday night at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego. This marks Judge’s second consecutive All-MLB First Team selection.

Unlike the Most Valuable Player and Cy Young Awards, which are awarded to one player in both the American League and National League, the All-MLB Team recognizes the best player(s) at each position across the Majors as a whole.

Voters are asked to consider only performance during the regular season when casting their ballots. Each team includes one selection at catcher, first base, second base, shortstop, third base and DH, as well as three outfielders (regardless of specific outfield position), five starting pitchers and two relievers.

Currently a free agent after making history in Yankees pinstripes, Judge enjoyed a walk year for the ages, setting an AL record with 62 home runs while hitting .311/.425/.686 with 133 runs, 28 doubles, 131 RBIs, 111 walks and 16 stolen bases in 157 games. His offseason honors have included a first AL Most Valuable Player Award.

“The motivation throughout the year, man, it goes to my teammates,” Judge said recently. “They constantly pushed me day in and day out to just show up and play, because I see the hard work they put in. Day in and day out, the good days and the bad days, I’ve got to show up just like them. Without the special crew that we had this year and the group of guys we've had over the past couple years, I know I definitely wouldn't be in this position.”