New York Yankees Superstar Aaron Judge 'MLB The Show' Cover Athlete for 2nd Time

January 27, 2026 - 19:50

New York Yankees slugger Aaron Judge is set to headline the virtual diamond once again. The reigning American League MVP has been announced as the cover athlete for the upcoming "MLB The Show 26," making him only the second player in the video game franchise's history to earn the prestigious cover spot twice.

Judge first appeared on the cover of "MLB The Show 23," and his return underscores his status as one of the sport's most iconic and recognizable figures. His selection celebrates a dominant period in his career, following a 2022 season where he broke the American League single-season home run record.

The announcement was met with enthusiasm from both the gaming and baseball communities, highlighting Judge's crossover appeal. His powerful presence at the plate and leadership as Yankees captain translate into a perfect fit for the popular baseball simulation series. The game's developers stated that featuring Judge for a second time was an easy decision, citing his consistent excellence and embodiment of the modern baseball superstar. "MLB The Show 26" is anticipated to release next spring, allowing fans to step into the cleats of one of the game's most formidable hitters.