Aaron Judge credits close relationship with Hal Steinbrenner for rejecting larger offers and re-signing with New York Yankees

At one point during the offseason, it really looked as if Aaron Judge was moving on.

Rejecting the Yankees $213.5 million extension in early 2021 was the smartest thing Judge did. After completing arguably the greatest offensive season in MLB history, Judge held all the cards.

Rumors circulated that the 2022 American League MVP was headed home to California. The San Francisco Giants were very close to completing a deal. The San Diego Padres apparently made the largest offer. Judge, however, was keen to remain with the New York Yankees.

As his father was known to do, Hal Steinbrenner decided to take a hands-on role in the negotiations.

"It just came down to the relationship I have with Hal," said Judge

As per a recent article by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Judge opened up about Steinbreener reaching out to him directly. Judge went on to say that he spoke to the Yankees owner man to man and was upfront and honest.

"In case you needed a better understanding of what Aaron Judge’s nine-year, $360 million contract with the Yankees means. That’s nearly…$770,000 per week $110,000 per day $4,600 per hour $76 per minute (H/T @JoePompliano)" - Sports Illustrated

The decision to reach out to Judge from Milan may be seen as a turning point in Yankees history. Steinbreener was critical in securing Judge to a nine-year, $360 million contract.

The Yankees were initially reluctant to budge on their eight-year, $320 million offer. A frank discussion between the MVP outfielder and owner was enough to get the deal done.

Aaron Judge's relationship with Hal Steinbrenner was a key reason he rejected larger offers and stayed with the New York Yankees

Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees poses with Hal Steinbrenner during a press conference at Yankee Stadium

For a large part of the offseason, the San Francisco Giants were the favorites to sign Aaron Judge. Judge grew up less than 100 miles from Oracle Park in Linden, California.

"Before re-signing with the Yankees in December, Aaron Judge turned down a Padres offer of at least 12 years $415 million. Per @Ken_Rosenthal" - Barstool Baseball

The San Diego Padres put together the largest package. The contract was worth well over $400 million with a guarantee that was $100 million more than the Yankees.

"They made a significant offer that kind of blew everyone out of the water," added Judge

Judge's loyalty to the New York Yankees was rewarded with a massive contract and the title of team captain. He became the first Yankees captain since Derek Jeter retired in 2014.

Hal Steinbrenner's role in the negotiations cannot be underestimated. His initiative and decisive action could be the difference next season as the club aim for their first championship since 2009.