Judge backs Boone to return as Yankees' manager: 'He's the guy'

New York Yankees star outfielder Aaron Judge wants Aaron Boone to return as the club's manager next season.

"I've been with Boonie all the way since 2018. He's the guy," Judge said, according to SNY's Andy Martino.

Boone is in his sixth season as manager. The Yankees have underwhelmed so far in 2023 and are trending toward missing the postseason for the first time since 2016.

Despite fans clamoring for changes amid a disappointing campaign, Judge remains confident that Boone is the right person to lead the franchise moving forward.

"He has been there for us in good times and bad times," Judge said. "The guy shows up and supports his players. You can probably tell by the amount of times he's been thrown out of games that he always has our back."

The Yankees have won five straight games but still entered play Thursday with only a 0.9% chance to make the postseason, according to FanGraphs.

Judge has enjoyed a stellar season at the plate despite missing almost two months with a toe injury. The 31-year-old owns a 1.019 OPS with 31 home runs in just 296 at-bats.

Judge believes the entire clubhouse supports Boone and hopes he returns next season.

"There are 28 guys in here that have his back," Judge said.

Boone owns a 497-350 record in his six seasons at the helm. He's led the Yankees to a pair of ALCS appearances but is just 14-17 in 31 postseason games.