Aaron Judge is making a habit of sending baseballs into the stands, and Thursday afternoon was no different. The Yankees’ captain launched his 48th home run of the season, leading New York to a 6-0 victory over the Cleveland Guardians.
It wasn’t just another win; it was a reminder of Aaron Judge’s extraordinary talent, a talent that has captivated not just fans but former players as well.
Al Leiter’s admiration for Aaron Judge
Al Leiter, the former Yankee and now a keen analyst, shared his admiration during an interview on The Dan Patrick Show.
“He is amazing to watch,” Leiter said, reflecting on Judge’s consistent excellence. “As I watch with a critical eye as a retired pitcher, he marginally ever looks fooled. His ability to stay on the baseball and go the other way—it’s just remarkable.”
Leiter didn’t hold back in expressing just how special he thinks Aaron Judge is. “Honestly, he’s a behemoth of a guy. He’s a huge, massive hitter, person, super impressive, can play center field. He’s just that good, honestly.” He went on to add, “Aaron Judge is as locked in as anybody… He’s special, man. He really is.”
Leiter’s words capture the sentiment that’s been building all season. Aaron Judge isn’t just having a good year; he’s having a season for the ages. With a batting average of .334 and an OPS of 1.191, he’s on pace to replicate, if not surpass, the historic 61-home run mark he set two years ago.
The Yankees’ key to success
Thursday’s victory, where Gerrit Cole notched his 150th career win, was a showcase of what the Yankees can do when firing on all cylinders. But even on a team with as much talent as New York’s, Judge stands out. His consistency at the plate has been a lifeline for the Yankees, especially during their midseason struggles.
As the season heads toward its climax, there’s a growing sense that this could be another special year for Judge and the Yankees. But, as Leiter’s comments suggest, what makes Judge truly remarkable isn’t just the numbers—it’s the feeling he brings to the game, the sense that every at-bat could be something unforgettable.
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