MLB News Roundup: Aaron Judge promises to lead by example as Yankees captain, Shohei Ohtani’s agent speaks about his contract negotiation with the Angels and more - February 21 2023

The MLB's spring training games will begin Friday, and there are plenty of exciting developments regarding top players like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani happening across the league. Here's a look at some of the most recent news and events from around the MLB.

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"I’ll be doing what I’ve been doing the past six or seven years," Aaron Judge during Yankees' news conference

On Monday, during a news conference, New York Yankees captain Aaron Judge talked about his contract extension and his expected performance for the upcoming season:

"I’ll be doing what I’ve been doing for the last six or seven years. I try to lead by example, be a voice for this team on and off the field.

“Last year was fun chasing history and having those moments. Every time we play in New York, it feels like you’re chasing history. ... You have to embrace those challenges.”

Judge will be the first captain for the New York Yankees since Derek Jeter’s retirement in 2014.

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Liam Hendriks addresses his cancer diagnosis in a motivational Instagram post

White Sox pitcher Liam Hendriks posted a motivational message on Monday regarding his recent cancer diagnosis and updated his current condition and positive mindset facing the situation:

"I’m just trying to take it day by day and stay positive… and make a few jokes inbetween."

According to teammate Lucas Giolito, the Australian pitcher has been present in almost all of the White Sox training sessions.

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Ohtani’s agent talks about taking his contract situation "One day at a time"

Ohtani’s agent on his possible contract extension with the Angels

Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese two-way star, could negotiate a long-term contract with the Los Angeles Angels during spring training, but his agent, Nez Balelo, said the process could be complicated if the negotiations dragged into the regular season.

Ohtani's agent didn't disclose the state of the talks between the sides, but he indicated that negotiations during the regular season could pose a problem because they might affect Ohtani.

The two-way star and the Angels recently agreed to a $30 million deal for the 2023 season to avoid arbitration. The agreement made him the highest-paid player ever in the arbitration process. This will be Ohtani's final year before he becomes a free agent. Some analysts have speculated that he could be baseball's first $500 million man.

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Nick Martinez to start for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Nick Martinez will pitch for Team USA at the World Baseball Classic next month, following the recent withdrawals of Clayton Kershaw and Nestor Cortes. Martinez will likely be part of the rotation, although it's not yet clear which games he will start.

The opportunity came after Martinez had to withdraw from the WBC due to scheduling conflicts when he was signed to a three-year contract with the Padres. However, the withdrawal gave Martinez the chance to look for other opportunities that would allow him to play a larger role.

Martinez expressed his joy and excitement at the prospect of pitching for Team USA, saying that it was an incredible honor for him and his family.

For more on Clayton Kershaw missing the World Baseball Classic:

https://www.sportskeeda.com/baseball/why-clayton-kershaw-playing-world-baseball-classic-2023-examining-insurance-policy-failed-clear