Judge Makes History with 51st Home Run
In a stunning display of power hitting, New York Yankees’ star Aaron Judge made history by hitting his 50th and 51st home runs of the season in a single game against the Colorado Rockies. Judge’s incredible feat not only solidified his place as one of the premier sluggers in the game but also put him on pace to break his own American League home run record.
The first of Judge’s two home runs came in the first inning off a 0-2 changeup from Rockies’ pitcher Austin Gomber. This marked Judge’s 18th home run in the first inning alone this season, tying him with former MLB great Alex Rodriguez for the major league record. Judge’s ability to come out swinging early in games has been a key factor in his success this season, as he continues to set the tone for the Yankees’ offense.
Setting the Pace for a Record-Breaking Season
Judge’s second home run of the game came in the seventh inning, following a solo shot from teammate Juan Soto. The back-to-back-to-back home runs by Judge, Soto, and Giancarlo Stanton showcased the Yankees’ formidable lineup and their ability to dominate opposing pitchers. Judge’s performance on Sunday put him on track to hit a staggering 63 home runs this season, surpassing his own AL record of 62 set in 2022.
Since his rookie year in 2017, when he hit 52 home runs, Judge has consistently been a force to be reckoned with at the plate. His combination of power, discipline, and consistency has made him a fan favorite and a player that opposing teams fear facing. Judge’s ability to hit 50 home runs in three different seasons puts him in elite company, joining the likes of Rodriguez, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire, and Babe Ruth.
Joining the Elite Ranks of Power Hitters
Rodriguez, who had two 50-homer seasons for the Texas Rangers in 2001 and 2002, as well as a 54-homer season for the Yankees in 2007, is considered one of the greatest power hitters of all time. His ability to consistently drive the ball out of the park made him a feared opponent and a player that pitchers had to approach with caution.
Sosa, known for his four consecutive 50-homer seasons from 1998 to 2001, showcased a level of power and consistency that few players have ever matched. His ability to hit for power year after year solidified his place in baseball history as one of the most prolific home run hitters of his era.
McGwire, with his four straight 50-homer seasons from 1996 to 1999, including his record-setting 70-homer season in 1998, was a dominant force at the plate. His raw power and ability to drive the ball out of the park with ease made him a fan favorite and a player that fans came out to see.
Ruth, with his back-to-back 50-homer seasons in 1920 and 1921 and again in 1927 and 1928, set the standard for power hitting in baseball. His ability to hit for both average and power made him one of the most feared hitters of his time and a player that opposing teams had to game plan around.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Aaron Judge’s record-setting performance on Sunday solidified his place as one of the premier power hitters in baseball history. His ability to consistently drive the ball out of the park and set records puts him in elite company with some of the greatest home run hitters of all time. As Judge continues to rewrite the record books and dazzle fans with his prodigious power, he cements his legacy as a true legend of the game.