LINDEN, Calif. — In the small town of Linden, it’s usually the highway that makes the most noise, but not this World Series week.
“The World Series and Aaron Judge: that is the biggest topic of conversation," said Linden resident and manager at Pizza Plus, Victoria Godwin.
The New York Yankees' superstar right fielder, number 99 is from the San Joaquin County town of around 1,800.
“It’s actually a really big accomplishment, especially for such a small town that spans just a little over a mile," said Godwin. "It says a lot that somebody could go so far and reach such achievements.”
Local businesses say they’re eager to share those achievements.
"We're the only place with several TVs around, so we’re going to have (the games) on every single one," said Godwin. "We are expecting lots of Yankees supporters in here."
Even at places where the pinstripes are usually forbidden, the local connection has forced an exception at least for the next few days.
"We’re the biggest little Giants town, but today-- this series-- we’re the biggest little Yankee town," said Kelli Heiser whose family owns the longtime Waterloo Club restaurant about seven miles west of Linden. "(Aaron) is one of the nicest, nicest guys you’ll ever want to meet. Super, super great guy."
Business owners say the Judge family are still frequent customers of local businesses. Aaron Judge's nonprofit, the ALL RISE Foundation this week awarded a $2,500 grant for a student leadership project at Waterloo Middle School.
"You have to root for Aaron. He's great in the community, does a lot for charity," said diehard Giants fan and Linden resident Tom Arcoleo. "Go Yankees!"
A quiet town, this week, is sending a loud message to number 99.
"We appreciate you," said Godwin. "We watch you. We are your biggest fans and biggest supporters."
Watch more from ABC10: Aaron Judge returns home after an incredible life changing year in Major League Baseball
