Aaron Judge continued his ridiculous tear in Thursday’s series finale against the Guardians, blasting his 14th home run in 30 games since the All-Star break to give him 48 for the season and increase his home run pace to 61.
With Judge now pacing to finish just one homer shy of the American League record that he set in 2022, Aaron Boone joked that it must be that time of year to start talking about pace and where Judge could finish when it’s all said and done.
If Judge keeps this pace, he would join an exclusive club of players to have multiple 60-homer seasons. Only two in baseball history have ever done it, with Sammy Sosa having three campaigns of more than 60 home runs, and Mark McGwire, who hit 70 and 65 in 1998 and 1999, respectively.
Asked about potentially reaching a feat that only two players have ever reached, and one that not even Babe Ruth or Barry Bonds accomplished, Judge answered in the most Judge way possible.
“If it comes with a ring and a lot of fun in the playoffs, then definitely that would be cool,” Judge said. “But like I said the other day, I’m just trying to do whatever I can each day to put ourselves in a good position to win a ballgame. Especially these games against Cleveland, who we’ll definitely see down the road. We’re fighting for the best record in the AL. I’m just trying to do my part.”
Judge’s teammates have not been nearly as modest when asked about what they’ve seen out of their captain this season. Giancarlo Stanton, a historic power hitter in his own right and the owner of a 59-homer season, said Judge is playing a “video game” while the rest of baseball is “grinding.”
“Big G is just being nice,” Judge said. “I watched Stanton do this for years. I’m just trying to be like him.”
As dynamic as Stanton was in his prime, even he didn’t put up the kind of power numbers that Judge has since 2022. It certainly didn’t seem like this kind of season was coming after the rough April Judge had to start the year, but Judge insists not much has changed from then to now.
“I’ve just felt like this all year. Even in April,” Judge said. “Just trying to do the same thing. Be consistent, repeat my swing, try not to think too much of it, and if I don’t get any pitches, pass the baton…just trying to do my job and get on base, and if there’s guys out there, drive them in. Having these guys around me definitely helps me lock in.”