Aaron Judge’s bat does overtime: 39th for him, 1 for Jazz in Yankees win

PHILADELPHIA — In a decisive 14-4 victory over the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Monday, Aaron Judge smashed two home runs. Then, in a generous gesture, he lent his bat to newcomer Jazz Chisholm Jr. for a ninth-inning face-off with Phillies’ catcher-turned-pitcher Garrett Stubbs.

The result? Chisholm hit his second homer of the night, bringing Aaron Judge’s personal home run count to 39 for the season while his bat technically claimed its 40th. The captain’s impact on the game clearly transcends his individual performance.

Aaron Judge continues homer spree, bat stays hotter than him

Aaron Judge continued his impressive season, launching two home runs in the Yankees’ six-homer win over the Phillies on Monday. His performance included a solo shot in the first inning and a two-run blast in the seventh, bringing his league-leading home run total to 39. The slugger’s recent surge has seen him hit four home runs in his last four games, while also driving in 10 runs during this span. His season RBI count now stands at 99, a remarkable 14 ahead of the next closest player, Jose Ramirez.

In an interesting turn of events, Chisholm, playing in only his second game for the Yankees since being acquired from the Miami Marlins, hit two home runs of his own. His second homer came in the ninth inning when he borrowed Aaron Judge’s bat to face catcher Garrett Stubbs, who was pitching in the lopsided game.

Aaron Judge humorously suggested he should be credited with half a home run for Chisholm’s use of his bat, jokingly claiming a total of 39.5 home runs for the season. “I think I get a half a homer for that one,” he said while smiling. “39 1/2. I’ll take it.”

Chisholm, who had also homered earlier in the game off Phillies ace Zack Wheeler, playfully showcased Aaron Judge’s bat in the dugout for the cameras after his second homer.

Jazz using Aaron Judge’s bat? pic.twitter.com/iwDhL6iyzy

— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) July 30, 2024

Chisholm explained that he had never previously hit successfully against a position player pitching and decided to either bat right-handed or use Aaron Judge’s bat. He chose the latter with the Yankees captain’s permission, and it proved successful. Despite the success, Chisholm said he wouldn’t use the bat again anytime soon, citing its excessive weight.

“Definitely not going to use that again tomorrow,” Chisholm said. “That bat was so heavy. I don’t think I ever got a hit against a position player until tonight. I was like, ‘You know what, Cap? I’m either going to go up there right handed or I’m going to use your bat.’ He’s like, ‘Go ahead, use the bat.’ It just worked.”

In response to Aaron Judge’s half-homer claim, Chisholm good-naturedly agreed that the slugger could have half, but insisted on keeping credit for a full home run himself, “He can get a half, but I got to get a full one still.”

This incident highlights the camaraderie and lighthearted moments in professional baseball, as well as the unique challenges and decisions players face during unconventional game situations.

Aaron Judge leads from the front, impresses all

Aaron Judge’s impressive performance, featuring 39 home runs and 99 RBIs, was highlighted by a solo homer in the first inning and a powerful 430-foot two-run blast to left field in the seventh. Despite his success, he focused on his three strikeouts rather than celebrating his achievements.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone was at awe of Aaron Judge’s offensive capabilities, noting how opponents often walk or pitch around him. Boone emphasized the remarkable nature of his captain’s accomplishments in the current hitting climate, particularly when paired with Juan Soto‘s contributions. He expressed hope that fans would appreciate the exceptional display of talent from both players. This commentary underscores the impact of Aaron Judge’s performance and its significance within the broader context of the game.

Soto’s performance, which included two doubles, complemented Aaron Judge’s display, with the pair combining for four extra-base hits and six RBIs. This collaboration underscores the critical nature of the upcoming trade deadline for the Yankees, as they only have one guaranteed season with this formidable duo before Soto becomes eligible for free agency.

Chisholm, experiencing Aaron Judge as a teammate for the first time, expressed his eagerness to learn from the star player. He described the captain’s work ethic and approach as extraordinary, stating it was unlike anything he had observed in other players.

The Yankees’ latest acquisition noted that while Aaron Judge’s home runs often make headlines, it’s his off-field preparation that truly impresses. He pointed out his meticulous approach to each at-bat, including his pitch selection and the way he analyzes pitches he chooses not to swing at.

“For me, it’s the prep for the day,” Chisholm said about Aaron Judge. “You see the mistake pitch he hits out, but up close, you see the pitches he takes and the pitches he looks at.”

Chisholm’s insider perspective offers a unique glimpse into Aaron Judge’s professional routines and decision-making process at the plate, revealing aspects of his game that aren’t typically visible to spectators or captured in highlight reels.

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