New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge believes that the World Baseball Classic is a better event than the World Series – at least, from a fan standpoint.

Judge, who is also the captain for Team USA, is about to play in his second World Baseball Classic Final this Tuesday night against Venezuela.

Before the showpiece for the international baseball series, Judge made the bold claim that it was a better event than the finale for the Major League Baseball season and referenced the passion of the crowds in Miami.

‘It’s bigger and better than the World Series,’ Judge said on Sunday about the WBC after a close 2–1 semifinal victory over the Dominican Republic. 

‘The passion that these fans have, representing their country, representing some of their favorite players, there’s nothing like it.’

Unsurprisingly, baseball purists were quick to shame Judge for such a hot take. 

Yankees and Team USA captain Aaron Judge sang the praises of the World Baseball Classic

Judge went so far to say that the crowds at the WBC are better than the World Series

‘Only better because he actually has a shot at winning this one,’ wrote one user on X. 

Another said, ‘Thats a good thing to say when you’re already 35 years old and know you’re never going to win a world series.’

‘I’d say that too if i lost in the world series,’ said another user – posting a gif of Judge’s infamous dropped pop fly in Game 5 of the 2024 World Series that handed the trophy to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

But plenty of others accurately realized that Judge was referring to the crowds and not necessarily the level of pressure and competition.

‘All this hate on the WBC. Get with the times, folks. This will be World Cup level,’ said one user. 

Another comment read, ‘Normal (passionate) fans are priced out of the World Series. That’s why.’ 

Judge and Team USA will play in the World Baseball Classic Final against Venezuela

One honest user wrote, ‘I’m high and still comprehend he’s talking about the fans lmao. Not a soul thinks the WBC matters more.’

‘Almost like the atmosphere is full of actual fans who can afford to be there not a bunch of suits and ties,’ read one comment. 

While viewership for the World Baseball Classic isn’t close to what the 2025 World Series saw, there is certainly a play for national pride. 

However, tickets before the semifinals were much more affordable than the World Series – leading to more active and excited crowds.

It’s expected to be a raucous environment in Miami when the USA and Venezuela play for the title.