Yankees' Aaron Judge bonding with Anthony Volpe over 'FIFA 23'

New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge has been a big fan of Anthony Volpe since at least spring training and recently presented the rookie shortstop with a special gift. 

As noted by Marly Rivera of ESPN, Judge gave Volpe a PlayStation 5 so that the two could face each other in the same version of "FIFA 23." Previously, Volpe began playing the popular soccer title on a PlayStation 4 during spring training after he watched the FIFA World Cup this past fall and then took a trip to Italy with family members to visit relatives. 

"It was my way of trying to connect with him and trying to know him as a person, particularly when it comes to the things that he enjoys off the field," Judge told Rivera. "And one thing that I picked up in spring training was hearing him talk about 'FIFA.'"

Judge certainly can afford such gestures after he remained with the Yankees via a nine-year, $360M deal weeks before Christmas. During spring training, teammates shared some stories about how the reigning American League Most Valuable Player served as the roster's unofficial captain throughout 2022. Judge apparently set up special dinners and trips to concerts even before he put pen to paper on his massive contract. 

"It said a lot," Volpe remarked about receiving the brand-new console. "It's very welcoming. He is going out of his way to bring me in. It's very generous and kind. And to have something like that with a new teammate, it's special."

Judge didn't take it easy on the 21-year-old, though, as the four-time All-Star selection "who has developed quite a reputation for his 'FIFA' skills since he started playing regularly in 2021" defeated Volpe 3-1 in a best-out-of-five series. The rookie nevertheless is thankful for the opportunity to have quality time with the club's top star and captain. 

"Stuff like that just shows how generous he is with everybody," Volpe added about Judge. "And how he approaches his leadership. I saw it in spring training in the clubhouse, but being on the team for the last week and a half, you see so many little examples. What is cool is that he's always that guy. That was such a kind and special gesture, but he is always that guy. He always has a few encouraging words for you. His leadership is constant."

The Yankees started the 2023 season at 6-4 and next play at the 7-4 Cleveland Guardians on Tuesday evening.