The New York Yankees stand by Aaron Judge in response to allegations raised by a Little League World Series coach.
Bob Laterza, the manager of the South Shore Little League team, expressed his disappointment that Judge didn't acknowledge his team before and during the Yankees' game against the Detroit Tigers last Sunday, as stated by the Staten Island Advance.
Laterza voiced his opinion earlier this week, stating, "Maybe you could turn around or give a wave to New York and the kids who idolize you as a hero. They are the ones who fund your salary."
In response, the Yankees praised Judge as "one of the greatest ambassadors of our sport," and suggested that Laterza could learn a thing or two from him.
The Yankees' statement further read, "He's a role model worth celebrating – not just for his skills and accomplishments on the field, but for his heartfelt dedication to making a positive impact on those who look up to him."
The Yankees' entire roster spent time connecting with Little Leaguers ahead of the game in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, including the team from Staten Island. The Yankees commended their players for their enthusiasm towards the hundreds of kids who accompanied them from their arrival in Williamsport to the end of the night.
Judge and manager Aaron Boone declined to comment when asked about Laterza's remarks by the Associated Press on Wednesday.
"I've got no response for that," Judge said. "I'm not going to give him a response because it's about the kids. That's what it's all about."
Boone echoed Judge's sentiment, stating he would not dignify the comments with a response, telling the Associated Press that "Aaron Judge is as good as it gets with everyone."
The South Shore Little League team was eliminated from the Little League World Series on Tuesday.
The Little League World Series brings together the best American and international Little League teams annually in Williamsport. The winner of the US bracket will face the winner of the international bracket in the championship game scheduled for August 25. The MLB Little League World Classic, which began in 2017 and is held annually at Journey Bank Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field, supports the growth of youth baseball and allows players to demonstrate their commitment to helping grow the game at the youth level and engage with young fans.
The New York Mets and Seattle Mariners will face off in the 2025 edition.
Despite Bob Laterza's criticism, the Yankees emphasized Aaron Judge's significant role in promoting their sport, praising him as an excellent ambassador and role model. The Yankees' roster also demonstrated their dedication to interacting with the Little Leaguers, showcasing their passion for nurturing the love for sports in the younger generation.
