Judge’s Hitting Coach Throws Shade at Yankees’ Development System

It’s no secret that Aaron Judge is a force to be reckoned with at the plate. But just how much credit goes to the New York Yankees’ player development system? Judge’s personal hitting coach, Craig hitting coach, Craig Nettles, recently offered some strong opinions, suggesting that Judge’s success is more about individual effort than any specific program.

The Numbers Don’t Lie:

• Judge’s 2022 season: .311 batting average, 62 home runs, 131 RBIs. A historic year that earned him the American League MVP award.

• Yankees’ system: While the Yankees have a long history of producing successful hitters, there have been recent concerns about their ability to develop young talent.

Nettles’ Perspective:

“Look, Aaron is a special talent,” Nettles stated. “He put in the work. The Yankees system? It’s good, but it’s not magic. Aaron’s success is largely about his own dedication and his willingness to evolve.”

What’s the real story?

While Nettles’ comments may raise eyebrows, they also highlight a critical question: how much emphasis should be placed on player development programs versus individual effort?

Case Study: The Rise of Giancarlo Stanton

Another Yankees slugger, Giancarlo Stanton, faced similar criticisms earlier in his career. He was praised for his raw power but criticized for his inconsistency. After working with personal hitting coaches, Stanton dramatically improved his batting average and overall performance.

The Bottom Line:

The Yankees have a storied history of success, but even the best systems require individual players to invest in their own development. Judge’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work and self-belief, illustrating that individual talent can often overcome even the most well-established systems.

It’s not about the Yankees versus individual effort, it’s about recognizing that both play a vital role in the success of any athlete.

What do you think? Does the Yankees player development system need an overhaul, or is individual talent the biggest factor in a player’s success? Share your thoughts in the comments below!