Yankees pitcher Luis Severino declares Aaron Judge has always been viewed as club's leader: "We've seen him as our captain years before this happened"

For New York Yankees players, Aaron Judge being named the club's captain was a mere formality.

Judge is set to officially play his first MLB regular-season game as captain tomorrow. For many New York players, however, he has already played that role for many years. The 30-year-old has been a leader and role model for several players in the clubhouse.

Pitcher Luis Severino was the latest Yankee to praise the superstar for his conduct:

"This is the first year that Judge is the captain for our fans. We've seen him as our captain years before this happened"

Per a recent article in The Athletic, Severino touched on Judge's leadership qualities. He went on to credit the outfielder's kind nature as one of the key reasons for his success.

"I’ve never seen somebody care for other people more than him"

While there is no doubting Judge's talent on the field, his off-field conduct may surprise a few fans. Judge has been known to splurge on players when it comes to meals and going out. He has been known to offer a helping hand to some of the club's younger prospects. He goes out of his way to make sure the team is united.

"This story is filled with awesome anecdotes of Aaron Judge being a captain before he was ever captain. They include Texas de Brazil, Mean Girls, Bad Bunny and a signed license plate. Read this from @ChrisKirschner" - Brendan Kuty

Judge became the Yankees' first captain since Derek Jeter retired in 2014. He is only the 16th captain in the history of the franchise.

Hal Steinbrenner and the New York Yankees prioritized re-signing Aaron Judge during the offseason

Aaron Judge against the Houston Astros in game two of the American League Championship Series at Minute Maid Park

There was a point during the offseason where the unthikable was nearly a reality. After being spotted at San Francisco International Airport, speculation was swirling that Aaron Judge was set to leave New York.

The San Francisco Giants were one of the favorites to sign the 2022 All-Star. The San Diego Padres reportedly came in with the biggest offer.

"Aaron Judge turned down $415 million Padres offer to stay with Yankees" - New York Post Sports

Judge, however, had his heart set on remaining a Yankee. Hal Steinbrenner understood that Judge's value to the club was immeasurable. He did everything in his power to persuade Judge to return.

In the end, a nine-year, $360 million contract looks like a bargain for what Judge offers the New York Yankees. He is not just their best player on the field, he is their most valuable member off it as well.