The Aaron Judge sweepstakes seemed to be swaying in the direction of the San Francisco Giants, though that report was later backtracked. Even so, many believed Judge was going to play for his hometown team instead.

That is until Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner got on the phone to call Judge and ask what he needed to remain in pinstripes.

But that phone call didn't come until Steinbrenner met Pope Francis during his vacation in Italy.

A photo was posted via YES Network that showed Steinbrenner about to shake hands with Pope Francis on Dec. 1.

Five days later, Steinbrenner called Judge from Italy when the Giants seemed to be gaining some traction to figure out how to keep their perennial All-Star and potential next captain in the Bronx, per SNY.