In the Big Apple, baseball carries a vibrant history from some deep rivalries to nicknames that define the player or the incident. One such nickname given to this former Mets legend is now being transferred. And surprisingly, the name is going to the other side of the Big Apple. It’s Aaron Judge who is taking over.
There’s no denying that Aaron Judge is marking a new chapter in history with his fiery, crackling performance on the field. But who would have thought that he would not only chase the Yankees’ greats but would also take the Mets’ Legend title? And now, the legend’s answer will tell you why he is one of a kind.
We all know Aaron Judge will be leading Team USA in the WBC 2026. Since the news came out, he has been given the nickname “Captain America.” Back in 2013, when the Mets’ former player was given the same title, representing the USA. Did it ring a bell? It was none other than David Wright.
In a recent interview, when asked about it, he replied with elegance by complementing Judge’s performance. Wright said, “Hitting like .900 with 100 homers through April. So, you know, I don’t have any objection to that. I mean, I wish I could hit like that.” His cheerful support highlights the mutual respect a player carries for another. Aaron Judge’s numbers actually speak volumes for him.
David Wright was asked about Aaron Judge getting the “Captain America” moniker for next year’s WBC:
“He’s hitting like .900 with 100 homers through April. I don’t have any objection to that. I wish I could hit like that” pic.twitter.com/cPdjQ6shFr
— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) May 13, 2025
The reigning American League MVP and officially designated Team USA captain for the next World Baseball Classic personifies the traits the moniker denotes. Through only 41 games, Aaron Judge’s league-leading 14 home runs and 40 RBIs, .414 batting average, .500 on-base percentage, and .783 slugging percentage make his current season numbers nothing short of amazing. These figures not only show his skill but also his unrelenting dedication to on-field success.
And it’s definitely a big deal to get validation from the former title holder, who was part of the USA team.
David Wright and WBC are a tale that goes hand in hand. When asked whether he would be interested in coaching the USA team, his reply was almost a yes. “I never thought about it as you know, I got two jerseys hanging in my office. I got my World Series jersey from 2015, and then I got my Team USA jersey. Team USA is near and dear to my heart, for sure. I mean, that seems like it’d be fun to be involved in some way.”
Whether he will coach or not is still unknown, but there is no doubt about the profound respect he carries.
Under Aaron Judge’s direction, Team USA prepares for the 2026 WBC, carrying on the heritage of “Captain America,” which links generations and teams. Wright’s support guarantees that the essence of oneness, excellence, and national pride stays at the core of Team USA’s efforts, so passing the torch.
And being a former Mets player, he did not hold back on talking about the team, especially for Alonso, who can soon break his records.
Wright’s seal of approval: For next Mets’ home run king
Pete Alonso’s quest for Mets home run history has turned into the defining story of the 2025 season. Alonso, with 235 lifetime home runs, is only 7 short of exceeding David Wright’s 242 and 17 away from breaking Darryl Strawberry’s franchise record of 252.
Given Alonso’s regular power-hitting ability, it is reasonable to think he might take the lead by season’s end. His longevity and capacity to perform in key situations have confirmed his role as a cornerstone of the Mets’ lineup.
Pete Alonso has shown a surprising change from a conventional power hitter to a more balanced, high-average slugger this season. Alonso has nine home runs and 34 RBIs to show for his early-season run of .341/.463/.659. His notably lower strikeout percentage, down from 24.7% to 15%, shows his better plate discipline. This change in his strategy has not only improved his offensive production but also won him the NL Player of the Month title for April.
Looking back on Alonso’s rise, Wright said, “Yeah, I mean, he did it a lot quicker than I did, that’s for sure. Certainly one of the premier power hitters in baseball. It just seems like every time the ball leaves his bat, it’s got a chance to get out of the ballpark, and it doesn’t even matter what ballpark he’s playing in.”
Wright also highlighted Alonso’s consistency, noting, “He doesn’t miss games, and I think that’s one of the greatest attributes that you can have as a guy that you can pencil in the lineup for, you know, 160 games a year.”
His quest reflects the lasting heritage of power hitters who have worn the blue and orange as much as a record, as Alonso marches toward Mets history. Every home run brings Alonso not only closer to the summit but also guarantees his place among the team’s greats, motivating future Mets players and supporters.
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