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Yankees star Aaron Judge shouldering load as one of MLB's key stars

Posted at 9:09 PM, Aug 22, 2017
and last updated 2017-08-22 21:09:45-04

Making his debut in Detroit this season, Aaron Judge had a smile on his face in the Yankees clubhouse on Tuesday.

His second half struggles are well-documented, but a few feet away, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred was speaking to reporters and mentioning Judge's performance in the Home Run Derby as a reason to believe in baseball.

The New York slugger has made an incredible name for himself this year, and said he was eager to visit Detroit for the first time.

"I'm just excited to go to new cities. First time in Detroit. Excited to play here and check everything out," he said. "I'm excited to see the fans. They're a big part of the game. Hopefully our team puts on a good show for them."

Speaking like a seasoned veteran, Judge quickly stepped in front of our TV cameras, answering question after question with ease.

Recently, ESPN's Darren Rovell reported a Judge autographed card sold for $24,000. Between that price, and the buzz from young fans who want him to sign a card for their own collection, Judge walked down the first base side of the Comerica Park infield embracing it all.

"Going to Giants games as a kid, being on the sidelines asking for players to sign my ball cap, it was something special to me," he added.

"That's why whenever I get an opportunity, I see a kid down the sideline, I try to sign his baseball, sign his card, sign whatever it is -- because I kinda picture myself as that little kid on the sideline."