Introduction
Aaron Judge, the towering outfielder for the New York Yankees, has become one of the most thrilling players in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Known for his imposing stature and power-hitting capabilities, Judge’s journey has captivated fans worldwide. One of the main highlights of his career has been his ability to hit home runs, making many fans wonder: how many home runs does Aaron Judge have?
Career Overview
Aaron Judge made his MLB debut on August 13, 2016, and quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the batter’s box. Standing at 6’7″ and weighing 282 pounds, his combination of size, power, and skill has set him apart from his peers. Judge plays for one of the most storied franchises in baseball, the New York Yankees, which is crucial to understanding the expectations and pressures he faces.
Home Run Milestones
Home runs have defined Judge’s career, and as of the end of the 2023 season, he has hit a remarkable total of 250 home runs. Let’s break down his home run stats year by year:
- 2016: 4 home runs in 27 games
- 2017: 52 home runs, breaking the Yankees’ rookie record
- 2018: 27 home runs
- 2019: 27 home runs
- 2020: 9 home runs (shortened season)
- 2021: 39 home runs
- 2022: 62 home runs, setting a new American League record
- 2023: 14 home runs (up until mid-August)
2022 Record-Setting Season
The most notable highlight of Judge’s career came during the 2022 season, where he hit 62 home runs, breaking the American League single-season record previously held by Roger Maris (61 home runs in 1961). Judge’s historic feat ignited debates about the legitimacy of home run records, especially in the context of the steroid era that has tainted the records of players like Barry Bonds.
This extraordinary performance not only showcased Judge’s hitting prowess but also made him an MVP candidate, ultimately earning him the prestigious award. His ability to hit for power while also maintaining a high batting average (finishing the season with .311) was a testimony to his all-around skills as a hitter.
Case Studies: Memorable Home Runs
Among Judge’s impressive home run tally, several have stood out for their significance, both personally and for the Yankees:
- First MLB Home Run: Judge’s first career home run came on August 13, 2016, against the Tampa Bay Rays. This moment solidified his entry into the league.
- 52 Home Runs in 2017: Judge’s breakout year came when he hit 52 home runs, earning him the AL Rookie of the Year award and showcasing his potential as an elite player.
- Breaking the AL Record in 2022: On October 4, 2022, Judge hit his 62nd home run off of Texas Rangers pitcher Jesús Tinoco, a moment that will forever be etched in baseball history.
Impact and Popularity
Aaron Judge’s impact on baseball extends far beyond his home run numbers. His power-hitting has made him a fan favorite, drawing impressive crowds at Yankee Stadium and increasing viewership for MLB games. Beyond the baseball diamond, Judge commits time to charitable causes, which further amplifies his appeal as a role model.
Conclusion
In summary, Aaron Judge’s home run tallies are a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication on the field. As of August 2023, Judge has officially reached 250 home runs in his career, and he continues to climb the ranks as one of MLB’s most formidable sluggers. The journey of Judge is one that fans and analysts will continue to follow closely, making it exciting to watch the great potential that lies ahead.
FAQs
- How does Aaron Judge compare to other home run hitters? Judge’s 62 home runs in a single season puts him among the elite in MLB history.
- What records does Aaron Judge hold? He holds the record for the highest single-season home run total in American League history.
