Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees slugger, has made history by reaching base 126 times during the 2025 Major League Baseball season, combining hits, walks, and hit-by-pitches. This remarkable feat was achieved before June, marking the highest total any player has ever reached before the end of May since at least 1900.
This record-setting performance places Judge above well-known players such as Albert Pujols, who reached base 121 times for the St. Louis Cardinals in 2008, and Jason Giambi, who achieved 120 times for the Oakland Athletics in 2001. Judge’s consistency and ability to get on base at such a rate demonstrate his elite status among MLB’s top hitters.
The Historic Milestone Shared with Fellow MVP Shohei Ohtani
Judge recently made an additional mark in baseball history alongside Shohei Ohtani, another reigning Most Valuable Player. On May 30, 2025, the pair became the first two current MVPs to hit home runs in the same inning. This rare event highlights the extraordinary talent present in the league this season and further cements Judge’s influence on the sport.
By the start of June, reaching base 126 times shows Judge’s ability to maintain focus and durability during the grind of a lengthy season, and it underlines why he remains a central figure in MLB’s record books.
From @EliasSports: Aaron Judge has reached base––with a hit, walk or HBP––126 times this season. That’s the highest total for any player since 1900 through the end of May. Next-highest: Albert Pujols––121 times for the 2008 Cardinals; and Jason Giambi––120 times for the 2001…
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) June 1, 2025
Judge’s Career Achievements and Current Season Excellence
Aaron Judge, a six-time All-Star and four-time Silver Slugger winner, initially announced his arrival in the league as the 2017 American League Rookie of the Year after hitting 52 home runs. In 2022, he went on to break Roger Maris’ longstanding AL record by smashing 62 home runs, surpassing the 61 set in 1961.
Throughout the 2025 season, Judge has maintained a batting average of .311 and shares the MLB lead with 131 RBIs. He has outpaced other players by hitting 16 more home runs than the nearest competitor, a gap last seen during the eras of legends like Jimmie Foxx in 1932 and Babe Ruth. This display of dominance further solidifies his position among baseball’s elite.
Contract and Leadership Role on the Horizon
Multiple reports suggest Aaron Judge is poised to become the New York Yankees’ first team captain since Derek Jeter retired after 2014. This potential appointment reflects his leadership qualities and standing within the team.
Judge famously declined several lucrative offers from the Yankees, including a $213.5 million, seven-year contract, before agreeing on a record nine-year deal worth $360 million in December 2022. With an average yearly salary of $40 million, Judge’s contract ranks sixth in Major League Baseball, trailing behind stars like Mookie Betts, Mike Trout, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Shohei Ohtani, and Juan Soto.
Looking Ahead: Continued Success Expected From Aaron Judge
Given his current performance pace and work ethic, Judge is projected to reach base at least 20 more times in June, signaling that his historic run is far from over. Fans and analysts alike are witnessing a player who not only shatters records but also inspires excitement for what the remainder of the season may hold.