My day job focuses on studying the effects of positive mentoring on new teachers, so it was exciting for me to read that this type of apprenticeship is happening at the Yankee clubhouse already this spring. According to MLB.com, "Carlos Beltran requested that (Aaron Judge) the top prospect locker next to his corner space this spring, perhaps seeing his heir apparent in right field. Beltran called manager Joe Girardi shortly before pitchers and catchers reported to George M. Steinbrenner Field to make the necessary arrangements, as first reported on Monday by New Jersey Advance Media."
This is so refreshing to see, quite frankly. In a sport that has been about fame and money as of late, it is truly satisfying that a veteran player like Beltran is taking an interest in grooming his replacement. Beltran will be turning 39-years-old this season, his final season on his contract with the Yankees. It is classy that Beltran has decided to take on Judge as his mentee.
"That's pretty cool, you know," Judge said. "Being next to a legend is awesome. Carlos is a guy I've watched for years growing up, just how he handles himself on the field and off the field, he's a class act, so it's a pretty cool honor and privilege to be here." For a young guy, that's a pretty classy comment as well.
No matter how Judge does this spring, the Yankees' top prospect is expected to start the year in Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. But that's okay, I mean, he will only be 24 this season, and a little extra time to grow in the minors will do him some good. But when he does eventually get the call, he will have Beltran right beside him providing the support and mentorship Judge needs to stay focused and poised for big league baseball.
-Suzie Pinstripe, BYB Senior Staff Writer
BYB Hot Stove Columnist
Twitter: @suzieprof
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