Judge throws a laser, then hits one to spark USA vs. Mexico

HOUSTON -- The Captain came to play in Team USA's biggest game of the World Baseball Classic.

Aaron Judge had a highlight-reel outfield assist and crushed a home run to open the scoring all within the same inning of the USA-Mexico showdown on Monday night at Daikin Park.

"It's playoff baseball -- in March," Judge told FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal on the field after Team USA's 5-3 win.

With the two undefeated WBC rivals clashing in the most hyped game of pool play, Judge showed why he's the United States captain at this Classic.

In the top of the third inning, Judge fired a rocket throw from right field to nab Joey Ortiz trying to go first to third on a base hit by Mexico leadoff hitter Jarren Duran.

And in the bottom of the third, the Yankees superstar belted an opposite-field shot just over the wall in right field for his second home run of the World Baseball Classic, sparking "U-S-A!" chants from the crowd in Houston.

"I love it," Judge told Rosenthal. "The fans came with it today. This was a fun atmosphere. An exciting atmosphere. The boys were ready to go."

Judge's home run led to a five-run frame for the United States, which got a big three-run homer from Roman Anthony just a few batters later to open up their lead.

But Judge's play in the outfield was just as important to swing momentum back toward the U.S. after Mexico had a sensational relay to cut down a run at the plate in the previous inning.

Judge's throw, which helped keep the game scoreless and set the stage for his homer, was tracked at 91.8 mph, according to Statcast. After Judge dealt with elbow issues for most of last season, which called his arm strength in the outfield into question, his WBC cannon should put those questions to rest.