Aaron Judge, the best-known face on the current New York Yankees roster, has become the focal point of an intensifying strategy employed by rival teams and their supporters. This tactic aims to destabilize the Bronx Bombers by putting pressure on their star player.
The trend gained momentum after Red Sox manager Alex Cora openly acknowledged targeting Aaron Judge in what was perceived as a retaliatory game. This approach escalated when Oakland Athletics fans took it upon themselves to torment the Yankees captain. They jeered Aaron Judge despite his West Coast roots, seemingly disregarding the fact that his hometown of Linden is merely a three-hour drive from Oakland.
Linden, CA native Aaron Judge hearing quite a few boos tonight here in Oakland.
This behavior crossed a line for Yankees supporters, who view any attack on Aaron Judge as intolerable. The Bronx faithful swiftly rallied to their captain’s defense, vehemently criticizing the A’s fans for their actions.
The incident highlights the growing tension surrounding Aaron Judge, as opponents seek to exploit his prominence to gain an edge against the Yankees. It also underscores the strong bond between the Yankees captain and the fanbase, who are quick to protect their star from what they perceive as unfair treatment, regardless of the source.
AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson
A’s legend believes Yankees are holding back Aaron Judge
On Thursday, Oakland Athletics legend Jose Canseco shared his thoughts on Shohei Ohtani’s remarkable 2024 season and drew comparisons to Aaron Judge’s potential. Canseco, who spent over half of his 17-year MLB career with the Athletics, boasts an impressive resume including six All-Star appearances, two World Series titles, four Silver Slugger awards, and both AL Rookie of the Year and MVP honors.
Canseco, known for his historic 40-40 season in 1988 (42 home runs and 40 stolen bases), discussed Aaron Judge’s capabilities with Sportsnet’s Kristina Rutherford. He suggested that the Yankees slugger could match Ohtani’s extraordinary 50-50 season feat if given the opportunity by the Yankees.
The former slugger speculated that the Yankees might be limiting Aaron Judge’s base-stealing to minimize injury risks, given his substantial nine-year, $360 million contract signed in 2020. Canseco emphasized the AL HR record holder’s surprising speed despite his large frame, arguing that the Yankees star could easily achieve multiple 50-50 seasons if allowed.
“People don’t know this about Aaron Judge but he’s extremely fast. He could be in the 50-50 club easily. But he’s got a huge contract, they don’t want him hurt, so he doesn’t steal bases. He’s 6-foot-7, 280 pounds, but could he in today’s structure steal 50? Easily.” Jose said. “That’s a given. For me, Aaron Judge could easily do a 50-50 back-to-back-to-back-to-back years. But of course, they’re not letting him run because they are protecting him.”
SL.com
Aaron Judge ranks alongside Babe Ruth and Ken Griffey Jr.
Despite the loss to the Seattle Mariners on Thursday, New York Yankees star Aaron Judge achieved a remarkable milestone. Going 1-for-3 with a stolen base in the game, Judge solidified his place in baseball history, even without adding to his home run tally.
Aaron Judge has now become only the third player in Major League Baseball history to accumulate 53 home runs and 10 stolen bases in a single season. This prestigious accomplishment puts him in the esteemed company of baseball legends Babe Ruth and Ken Griffey Jr.
The 32-year-old outfielder continues to demonstrate his dominance in what appears to be another MVP-caliber season. Aaron Judge is currently maintaining an impressive .321 batting average, complemented by his 53 home runs and 136 RBIs. His 10 stolen bases add an element of versatility to his game, while his outstanding 1.142 OPS further cements his status as an elite hitter.
This performance marks Aaron Judge’s second potentially MVP-worthy season in just three years, reinforcing his reputation as the most intimidating batter in the American League. His consistent excellence and ability to impact the game in multiple ways make him a cornerstone of the Yankees’ lineup and a constant threat to opposing pitchers.
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