Get ready to be blown away: Aaron Judge is making history as the cover athlete for MLB The Show 26, marking only the second time a player has graced the game’s cover twice. But here’s where it gets controversial—while Judge joins Baseball Hall of Famer Joe Mauer in this exclusive club, some fans are already debating whether this honor should be spread to other deserving players. The game drops on March 17, with early access starting March 13, and it’s not just another cover—it’s a tribute to Judge’s entire career.
This year’s artwork is a masterpiece of storytelling. Unlike his 2018 debut, which showcased Judge in the New York Yankees’ iconic pinstripes, this version expands to highlight multiple chapters of his journey. Behind him, a Team USA jersey nods to his upcoming World Baseball Classic debut, while a map of California pinpoints his high school and Fresno State jersey, grounding him in his roots. Judge himself called the design ‘pretty special,’ telling ESPN, ‘It has a lot of different ties to different parts of my life. I think fans—and even gamers who don’t follow baseball—will really enjoy it.’
And this is the part most people miss—Judge’s connection to MLB The Show runs deep. Growing up, he eagerly awaited the game’s annual March release, begging his parents to rush him to the store for a copy. Fast forward to last Thanksgiving, when he rediscovered 50 unopened copies of MLB The Show 18—the one featuring him on the cover—at his parents’ house. ‘It’s surreal,’ he admitted. ‘Little 10-year-old Aaron dreaming of the majors, and now here I am. I have to pinch myself every time I see it.’
Since that 2018 cover, Judge has jokingly asked his agent if he could be on it every year, admitting he’s always envied Tiger Woods’ 14 editions of PGA Tour. ‘It was a dream to stay involved in gaming,’ he said. ‘When they called to say I’d be on the cover again, it felt unreal.’ But don’t think he takes it for granted—Judge is quick to point out that many MLB stars deserve this spotlight too. ‘Getting to do it twice is special,’ he said. ‘I’d love a third time, but I know others will bring humility and excellence to that cover.’
Here’s the thought-provoking part: Judge’s desire to be on the cover isn’t just about representing the Yankees or his decade-long MLB career—it’s about connecting with the next generation. Through his ‘All Rise’ foundation, he’s seen kids recognize him from the game, even those who rarely attend baseball games. ‘That’s the coolest thing,’ he said. ‘Connecting with those kids and the next generation—that’s what it’s all about.’
When it comes to playing the game, Judge heads straight to Road to the Show mode, always checking his ratings. He sticks to playing as the Yankees, though he admits it feels ‘weird and surreal’ to control himself. And let’s not forget the tech magic—in 2018, Sony scanned his walk-up, swing, and motions, and Judge is still amazed by the accuracy. ‘I don’t know how they do it,’ he said. ‘I even have a better swing in the game than in real life!’
So, here’s the question for you: Does Aaron Judge deserve a third cover appearance, or should the spotlight shift to other MLB stars? Let’s debate it in the comments!
