Home Run Showdown: Yankees star climbs to second in American League

New York Yankees' star Aaron Judge watches his two home runs against Angels
Frank Franklin II / AP
Amanda Paula
Saturday June 17, 2023

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Although Aaron Judge’s absence has been keenly felt by the New York Yankees, his dominance in the American League Home Run Race remains undeniable. Despite not being on the field, Judge’s presence is still strongly felt in the league’s home run standings, solidifying his status as one of the most formidable power hitters.

Aaron Judge has established himself as a significant force in the regular season. Prior to his absence, he compiled an impressive 175 at-bats, along with notable statistics such as 42 runs scored, 51 hits, 40 RBIs, and an outstanding batting average of .291.

His prowess in hitting home runs truly sets Aaron Judge apart, ranking second in the American League. Only Shohei Ohtani from the Los Angeles Angels has hit more home runs, with 22 to his name. Judge’s consistent success at the plate solidifies his position as one of the league’s premier power hitters and highlights his immense value to the New York Yankees.

Captivating attention

Aaron Judge’s performances continue to captivate sports enthusiasts and garner attention from media outlets nationwide. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the return date of the American League’s most valuable player, Judge’s presence on the field brings excitement and anticipation to fans everywhere. The New York Post recently highlighted Judge’s exceptional abilities, ranking him alongside Gerrit Cole as one of the league’s top pitcher-hitter duos. This recognition further solidifies Judge’s status as a dominant force in the American League.

A Connection to baseball history

Judge’s impact goes beyond his remarkable performances. He shares a unique connection to baseball history, specifically with Roger Maris’ iconic home run chase of 1961. Bryan Hoch of MLB.com, in a preview of his upcoming book, sheds light on the day Maris hit his 61st home run on October 1, 1961. Remarkably, 52 years and three days later, Aaron Judge, a talented player from Sacramento, achieved the same milestone while proudly wearing the Yankees jersey. This extraordinary feat not only solidified Judge’s position as one of the league’s standout players but also emphasized his significant role in upholding the storied legacy of the New York Yankees.

While Judge has faced challenges, particularly during postseason scrutiny, he has consistently displayed exceptional resilience and determination. Despite criticism and setbacks, Judge has showcased an unparalleled ability to deliver when it matters most, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most exceptional players.

Yankees nation eagerly awaiting Judge’s return

Aaron Judge smiling during a Yankees' game in MLB.
@Yankees/Twitter

As the 2023 season progresses, Pinstripes Nation readers eagerly anticipate Aaron Judge’s return to the lineup. The mere presence of Judge on the field could change the course of a game, highlighting his immense value to the team. Beyond his achievements, Judge embodies the spirit and tradition of the New York Yankees, representing the esteemed franchise with grace, humility, and unmatched talent.

However, the absence of their star player has presented challenges for the Yankees. In an upcoming game against their prominent baseball rivals, the Boston Red Sox, for the second game of the series, the team must confront their recent defeat by a notable margin of 15-5. Despite this setback, the Yankees look to overcome the odds and demonstrate their resilience in tough competition.

What do you think? Leave your comment below!

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Raymond McGlyn

Yes. We definitely miss Judge! No doubt. However, the other players on the team need to step up on his absence. To have lost that way (15 to 5) to the Red Sox is just plain unacceptable! This was supposed to be the Yankees year according to all the pre-season hype that I read over the months prior to Spring training. So far it’s been a HUGE embarrassment. They ALL need to play as a TEAM and do whatever it takes to scratch back to the top. PERIOD.

Sir Richmond McGlyn,

With all due respect Sir, the Yankees are in a great position to win still. The fact remains that the Red Sox are a great team and that eventually these kind of loses will happen whether the fans, the players, or even the management likes it or not. Cheer up brother because soon The Judgement Day will come and the NY Yankees will win often and with flying colors.
The Yankees are in a great position. They are good, the season is young, and the players have time to mesh and build chemistry. This NYC team will win more than a few World Series guaranteed. Aaron Judge will definitely be a gold magnet for years to come. He already won The Rookie Of The Year award in 2017. He won the MVP last year even without winning a World Series. In fact, Aaron Judge even broke the unbreakable Roger Maris 61 years home run record.
Mr. McGlyn If I were you I would just relax, enjoy the games, the season, go to as many games as you can, and wait for a great October. The fact that Great Octobers are coming is an undeniable fact of life.

By SIR BROOKLYN WORLD

John

The Yankees can not depend on Judge alone every other players and coaches have to step up. So far the team is playing horribly and the management is no better.The Yankees are a team not a one man show

Actually He Is The Captain.

Elie Canetti

Fwiw, as good as Judge and Cole are, the American League’s top hitter-pitcher duo is Shohei Ohtani.

Edward Bertot

While the Yankees do miss Judge it still is evident that even when he is in ghe lineup he strikes out too much! He usually hits a home run when the games isn’t on the line. The Yankees will be lucky to finish 3rd in the East.

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