After all, Soto's presence ahead of Judge in the Yankees' lineup did create more opportunities for the latter to bat with a man on base. He saw more pitches to hit accordingly, so of course he went off for a 58-homer, 144-RBI season that netted him his second American League MVP.

When right fielder Juan Soto departed from the Yankees to sign with the Mets, he knew he was leaving behind one of the most precious spots in any batting order in baseball — the No. 2 hole, in front of slugger Aaron Judge.

Michael King watched Aaron Judge closely during his time with the New York Yankees. And not just for tips on how to pitch to the Yankees' captain, which might come in handy Tuesday night. He also took notes on how Judge handled himself off the field—especially in 2022, when the spotlight was brightest.