Aaron Judge makes history as New York Yankees star returns as MLB The Show 26 cover athlete

Aaron Judge is back on the cover of MLB The Show 26. On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, San Diego Studio and Major League Baseball officially revealed the New York Yankees captain as the face of the new game.

The announcement was shared across MLB platforms and confirmed by MLB reporter David Adler. This makes Aaron Judge only the second player in the history of the franchise to appear on the cover more than once.The New York Yankees star outfielder first appeared on the cover in MLB The Show 18. Now, after another big season in pinstripes and an American League MVP campaign, Aaron Judge earns the honor again. The game is set to release on March 17, 2026, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch, with early access starting March 13 for Digital Deluxe buyers.

Aaron Judge becomes rare repeat cover athlete for MLB The Show 26

Aaron Judge’s return puts him in a very small group. According to MLB reporter David Adler, the only other player to do this is former Minnesota Twins catcher Joe Mauer, who was on the covers in 2010 and 2011. That history makes this moment even bigger for Judge and for Yankees fans. San Diego Studio, which develops the game, said Judge’s impact on baseball made him the clear choice. “Aaron Judge represents today’s game,” the studio shared in its reveal statement.

“His power, leadership, and presence reach far beyond the field.”Judge, who plays his home games at Yankee Stadium in New York, reacted with pride. “Being on the cover again is special,” Judge said. “I remember how much the first one meant. This is something I don’t take lightly.” His role as Yankees captain and one of MLB’s biggest faces helped seal the decision.

The timing of the reveal is not random. MLB The Show 26 will launch just weeks before pitchers and catchers report to spring training on February 10, 2026.

With the new season near, the game’s release adds to the growing baseball buzz.Pre-orders open February 3, 2026, at 12 p.m. EST, through TheShow.com, major gaming stores, and select retailers. A full gameplay trailer is also set to drop the same day. Fans who pre-order the Digital Deluxe Edition will be able to play four days early, starting March 13. For many players, Aaron Judge’s return to the cover connects the game to what they see on the field. From his towering home runs to his calm leadership in the Yankees clubhouse, Judge continues to be one of baseball’s most recognizable names, both inside and outside the stadium.