Aaron Judge Calls Mets Toughest Opponent in Subway Series Showdown

The Subway Series, the annual clash between New York’s two baseball giants—the Yankees and Mets—brought its usual drama, star power, and high-stakes tension this year. Spanning two wild legs at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field, the series put both teams’ best on display and left fans wanting more.

Momentum swung back and forth. Star performances and close finishes made this year’s Subway Series a memorable one.

Mets Shine at Citi Field After Early Setback

The Yankees started strong, taking two of three games at Yankee Stadium earlier in the summer. That seemed to set the stage for another Bronx Bombers run.

But once the scene shifted to Citi Field, the Mets—fresh off a series win over the Brewers—showed up ready to fight back. Friday and Saturday brought out the best in this Mets squad.

On Friday night, Jeff McNeil smashed a crucial late home run, giving the Mets the boost they needed. Then Saturday, the offense exploded.

Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo combined for nine RBIs, overwhelming the Yankees and clinching the series at home for the Mets.

Sunday’s Finale: A Test of Depth for Both Teams

Sunday’s game didn’t feel like a throwaway at all. Both teams had to dig deep, especially with the Mets’ bullpen running thin.

Despite the challenge, the Mets’ relievers battled and kept things close. Yankees closer Devin Williams finally locked down the win for the Bombers, saving the finale and stopping a sweep at Citi Field.

High Praise From Both Dugouts

Sure, the rivalry gets heated, but after the last out, respect was the word from both sides. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza called out his team’s “resilience and fight,” saying he was proud of how they answered the call against a club like the Yankees.

Yankees ace Max Fried tipped his cap to the Mets’ balanced lineup. “They grind out at-bats, they force you into tough situations, and they find a way to create runs,” Fried said. The Mets really do make you work for every out.

Aaron Judge’s Take on the Mets

Yankees captain Aaron Judge didn’t hold back either, calling the Mets “one of the toughest teams we’ve faced.” He praised the Mets’ deep lineup and strong pitching, pointing out how they can cause problems all over the field.

Judge even threw out the idea of a playoff rematch—who wouldn’t want to see this rivalry spill into October?

What Makes This Subway Series Special

The Subway Series is always about more than just the scoreboard. These games bring out the city’s die-hards, and this year’s chapter had its share of unforgettable moments.

From Alonso’s power to Judge’s leadership, the 2023 series packed plenty of star power and high-pressure drama.

  • Competitive Balance: Both teams grabbed big wins, showing just how unpredictable this rivalry can get.
  • Star Power: McNeil’s clutch bat, plus Alonso and Nimmo’s fireworks, kept things electric.
  • Respect Between Teams: Judge and Fried’s comments made it clear—there’s real admiration here, even when the competition’s fierce.

A Look Ahead

The Subway Series might be over for now, but the buzz around these two teams isn’t going anywhere. Both the Yankees and Mets still have their eyes on the playoffs.

Honestly, it’s not impossible to imagine them meeting again when the stakes are even higher. If that happens, the rivalry would get a fresh jolt, and the energy in New York would be off the charts.

As the 2023 MLB season rolls on, one thing feels clear: the Subway Series remains one of baseball’s most electrifying traditions. Fans on both sides are already counting down the days until the next showdown.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Aaron Judge calls Mets ‘one of the toughest teams’ Yankees have faced after back-and-forth Subway Series

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