Aaron Judge: Fastest to 300 Home Runs and Still Soaring
On Wednesday night, Aaron Judge etched his name into the annals of Major League Baseball history by hitting his 300th career home run. What makes this milestone particularly noteworthy is the speed at which Judge reached it. The Yankees slugger achieved this feat in just his 955th career game, making him the fastest player in MLB history to reach 300 home runs. In comparison, the previous record-holder, Ralph Kiner, needed 1,087 games to reach the same mark.
Judge's journey to this historic moment has been marked by both incredible highs and some significant lows. Over the past few seasons, his on-field performances have astounded fans and critics alike. He played in 148 games in 2021, 157 in 2022, and has participated in 120 of the Yankees' 122 games in the current season. However, injuries have also been a recurrent part of Judge's career. He missed 50 games in 2018, 60 in 2019, and 56 games in 2022 due to a persistent toe injury. Despite these setbacks, Judge has continued to amaze with his power at the plate.
Judge himself acknowledges the ongoing battle with his toe condition, describing it as requiring "constant maintenance." Nonetheless, his resilience and determination have kept him at the top of his game. This season, Judge is projected to finish with 57 home runs, which will push his career total to 314 heading into 2025. Over the next four years, he is expected to average 42 home runs per season. By the end of this period, Judge's projected home run total could stand at a towering 482, putting him within striking distance of the legendary 500-home run club.
Comparisons to the game's greats naturally follow Judge's achievements. The exclusive 500-home run club includes luminaries such as Barry Bonds with 762 home runs, Hank Aaron with 755, and Babe Ruth with 714. Other notable members include Alex Rodriguez (696), Willie Mays (660), Ken Griffey Jr. (630), Jim Thome (612), Sammy Sosa (609), Frank Robinson (586), Mark McGwire (583), Harmon Killebrew (571), Rafael Palmeiro (569), Reggie Jackson (563), and Manny Ramirez (555).
If Judge continues his current pace, his projected career total of 589 home runs would position him just beyond Frank Robinson, affirming his status as one of the premier power hitters of his era. This longevity and sustained performance will be crucial, as Judge's contract with the Yankees runs through 2031, providing ample time to continue adding to his already impressive home run tally.
As we witness Aaron Judge's ascension in the record books, it becomes increasingly evident that his career is not just about the numbers but also about his ability to overcome adversity and maintain peak performance despite physical challenges. His journey serves as a testament to dedication, resilience, and the sheer talent required to excel at the highest level of professional baseball.
Indeed, Judge's latest milestone is not merely a personal achievement but also an inspiring chapter in the storied history of the New York Yankees and Major League Baseball. Fans and observers alike can look forward to many more thrilling moments from Judge as he continues to carve out his legendary career.