Aaron Judge 'Leaning Toward' Not Participating in 2018 MLB Home Run Derby

Reigning Home Run Derby champion Aaron Judge said he's likely "done" competing in the event.

The New York Yankees slugger told The Players' Tribune podcast he doesn't expect to take part in the marquee All-Star festivity in 2018 or beyond, per George A. King III of the New York Post.

"I think I am one-and-done," Judge said.

The 25-year-old American League Rookie of the Year hit 30 homers before the All-Star break. He went into a slump after winning the Derby, however, connecting on just seven long balls over the next six weeks before finishing with a flurry in September, when he pounded 15 home runs.

Judge didn't provide a reason for his likely decision to end his Home Run Derby career after a single successful appearance. While there's long been a theory that taking part in the showcase leads to poor production in the second half, Ken Woolums and Daniel R. Braunstein of FiveThirtyEight debunked that idea in 2014.

Nevertheless, the Yankees probably won't mind Judge, who underwent shoulder surgery in November, avoiding any extra injury risk as they chase a World Series title this season.