Aaron Judge, the towering New York Yankees outfielder, is in the midst of a home run chase that could alter baseball history. As the 33-year-old approaches the midpoint of the current MLB season, he has made his intentions clear to continue playing into his 40s, aiming to surpass Babe Ruth’s iconic team home run record.
Analyzing the Numbers Behind Judge’s Goal
Judge’s contract secures his place with the Yankees through age 39, offering a potential decade or more to build on his already impressive tally of 350 career home runs. Yankee lore places Babe Ruth at the top with 659 home runs, followed by Mickey Mantle’s 536 and Lou Gehrig’s 493. If Judge finishes this season with 55 home runs—bringing his total to 370—he would need to average roughly 36 home runs per season over the next eight years to eclipse Ruth’s mark.
This projection appears attainable given Judge’s exceptional athleticism and work ethic, along with the possibility of transitioning to a designated hitter role to extend his playing longevity and reduce wear on his body.
Contextualizing Judge’s Rapid Progression
Judge’s ascent has been remarkable, reaching 350 home runs with 241 fewer games than Babe Ruth required. His relatively late MLB debut at age 24, following a lengthy college career at Fresno State, adds perspective to his pursuit. However, if he extends his career past 39 into his 40s, this initial delay could become less consequential in the larger picture of his legacy.
Building a Lasting Legacy with the Yankees
Successfully breaking Ruth’s record would not only cement Judge’s place at the pinnacle of Yankees history but could also position him as arguably the franchise’s greatest player ever. While challenging, Judge’s determination and skill suggest he is fully committed to achieving this ambitious milestone.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will closely monitor each at-bat and home run swing, witnessing a player who embodies resilience and excellence in his bid to redefine what is possible for a Yankees slugger.
“Aaron plans to continue playing beyond the traditional peak age and is very focused on pushing his limits.” —Ian O’Connor, Sports Journalist
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What’s special about Aaron Judge?
A. Aaron Judge is famous for hitting home runs. He’s achieved three seasons with 50 or more homers, a feat only four other players have ever reached.
Q. How old was Aaron Judge adopted?
A. Aaron Judge was adopted by Patty and Wayne Judge, who both worked as teachers, the day after he was born on April 27, 1992. When he was about 10 years old, he figured out he was adopted because he looked different from his parents.
Q. Did Aaron Judge know he was adopted?
A. When he was about 10 years old, he realized he was adopted because he didn’t resemble his parents. This was a closed adoption, so he hasn’t communicated with his birth parents. Aaron Judge, now a standout player for the New York Yankees, has achieved many honors since starting in Major League Baseball in 2016.
Q. Why did Aaron Judge choose 99?
A. Judge wears the number 99 because it was assigned to him during spring training in 2016. He told NJ.com, “They gave it to me in spring training, and it just stayed with me.” Judge has also worn number 99 throughout his career.