Aaron Judge hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the first inning during a New York Yankees home game [1].

The early blast established immediate momentum for the team and served as a tribute to the late broadcaster John Sterling [1].

Reports on the specific timing and opponent of the game vary. According to the Winnipeg Free Press, the game took place on April 3, 2026, against the Miami Marlins [2]. That report said the Yankees won the contest 8-2 [2], marking a 6-1 start to the season [2].

Conversely, the New York Post said the event occurred on May 4, 2026, during a game against the Baltimore Orioles [1]. Both sources agree that Judge's home run provided two runs [1, 2] and occurred in the first inning to set the tone for the match.

Judge, the team captain, continues to lead the offense from the center of the lineup. The home opener at Yankee Stadium drew significant attention as the team looked to maintain its early-season lead in the standings [2].

Aaron Judge crushed a two‑run home run in the bottom of the first inning

The discrepancy in reporting regarding the opponent and date suggests conflicting data between major sports outlets. However, the consistent detail of a first-inning two-run home run underscores Judge's role as the primary offensive catalyst for the Yankees during the early stages of the 2026 season.