New York Yankees star Aaron Judge is quickly approaching a major milestone in the franchise’s storied history, edging closer to the home run totals of legendary players despite his team’s recent difficulties. As of early July, Judge’s pursuit of historic Yankees home run achievements continues amid a challenging season for the club.
Judge Closing in on Iconic Yankees Home Run Records
The New York Yankees’ all-time home run leaders list is dominated by figures like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, and Mickey Mantle, all considered the franchise’s Mount Rushmore. Although Aaron Judge is still early in his career relative to these legends and has yet to secure a championship, he is rapidly approaching the home run totals of significant Yankees greats.
By July 2, Judge had blasted 345 home runs with New York, just seven shy of surpassing Alex Rodriguez’s 352 homers. He is also on pace to eclipse Yogi Berra’s 358 before the season concludes. Joe DiMaggio leads the list among others still ahead, with 361 career homers hitting the Yankees during his 13-year career, which included seven seasons with 30 or more home runs and a peak of 46 in 1937.
Only Ruth, Mantle, and Gehrig top Judge’s current total, with Ruth holding a monumental 659 home runs in pinstripes, Mantle at 536, and Gehrig with 493. This rapid climb places Judge firmly on track to join this elite group, marking a significant individual achievement as he continues to make history.
Challenges Facing Judge and the Yankees During a Slump
Despite Aaron Judge’s remarkable individual progress, the Yankees as a team have faced turbulent times. Since May 30, the club’s record has slipped to 13-17, reducing their once-comfortable AL East lead to just a single game. Judge himself has struggled at the plate recently, hitting only .222 over his last 18 games.
This downturn has intensified doubts about the Yankees’ ability to maintain their lead in the division and their chances of winning back-to-back pennants. The team’s overall performance has been inconsistent, and reinvigorating Judge’s often powerful offensive streaks is seen as crucial to turning around their fortunes.
The Yankees’ hopes now pivot on Judge regaining his groove to help the team capitalize on its talent and attempt a recovery before the season slips away further.