Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees outfielder, etched his name in baseball history by breaking a record that had stood for over six decades. On October 4, 2022, Judge hit his 62nd home run at Globe Life Field, surpassing Roger Maris’ 1961 record of 61 home runs in a single season. This historic achievement not only marked a milestone in Judge’s career but also highlighted the unwavering support of his wife, Samantha Bracksieck.
Early Life and Shared Journey
Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck’s story begins in Linden, California, where they both attended Linden High School. Judge excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, graduating in 2010. After high school, both pursued their studies at Fresno State University. Bracksieck’s academic achievements were notable; in 2017, she was honored for her outstanding master’s thesis in kinesiology, which examined elbow ligament injuries in Major League Baseball players.
A Private Yet Supportive Relationship
Despite their public personas, Judge and Bracksieck maintain a relatively private relationship. Bracksieck first appeared on Judge’s Instagram in November 2014 in a Thanksgiving Day 5K run photo collage. Since then, she has rarely been featured on his social media, with notable appearances during the MLB All-Star Break in July 2022.
The couple’s low-profile approach extends to their wedding, which took place on December 13, 2021, in a private ceremony in Maui, Hawaii. They exchanged vows under an arch of florals and greenery at the Montage Kapalua Bay Resort, surrounded by close family and friends, including several of Judge’s Yankees teammates.
A Shared Passion for Sports
Judge and Bracksieck’s love for sports is evident in their frequent appearances at various sporting events. In November 2019, they were seen on the sidelines during a Fresno State football game. They also enjoy basketball, having been spotted courtside at NBA playoff games and a New York Knicks game against the Boston Celtics in October 2023. Their shared interest in tennis brought them to the US Open in 2022 and 2023.
Giving Back to the Community
The couple’s commitment to giving back is a significant aspect of their relationship. In November 2019, they visited young cancer patients at Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera County, California. This visit was part of Judge’s work with his foundation, ALL RISE, which aims to inspire children and teens to become responsible citizens through leadership programs, grants, and baseball camps.
Supporting Each Other’s Endeavors
Samantha Bracksieck’s athletic prowess is commendable, having completed the New York City Marathon twice. In November 2022, Judge was there to cheer her on as she crossed the finish line. A year later, he was again at the finish line, ready to congratulate her with a hug and a smile. Their support for each other extends beyond personal achievements to helping others in their circle, as evidenced by Bracksieck’s guidance to Emily Rizzo, wife of Judge’s teammate Anthony Rizzo, for her marathon preparation.
Judge’s Historic Achievement and Captaincy
Aaron Judge’s 62nd home run was a momentous occasion, celebrated by fans and his wife alike. “My wife has been with me through it all, and she’s calm as a cucumber, that’s for sure,” Judge told the New York Post after tying Maris’ record. This milestone was followed by another significant event in December 2022, when Judge signed a nine-year, $360 million contract with the Yankees and was named the team’s newest captain. During the press conference, he expressed his gratitude to his wife, highlighting their decision to remain in New York.
Conclusion
Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck’s journey is a testament to the power of love, support, and shared dreams. From their high school days in Linden, California, to making history in Major League Baseball, their story is one of dedication and mutual respect. As Judge continues to make his mark in baseball, Bracksieck remains a steadfast supporter, exemplifying the strength of their partnership both on and off the field.
