Aaron Judge Makes History with 300th Career Home Run
Aaron Judge added another remarkable achievement to his already illustrious career on Wednesday night by hitting his 300th career home run. Not only did this milestone homer help propel the Yankees to victory, but it also solidified Judge's position as the fastest player in Major League Baseball (MLB) history to reach 300 home runs. Judge accomplished this feat in just his 955th career game, surpassing the previous record held by Ralph Kiner, who took 1,087 games to reach the same milestone.
Judge's journey to this historic home run has been marked by more than just power at the plate. It’s a story of resilience and determination, as he has had to overcome significant injuries that sidelined him in multiple seasons. The 31-year-old slugger missed 50 games in 2018, 60 games in 2019, and another 56 games in 2022 due to a toe injury—an injury Judge describes as requiring "constant maintenance."
Consistency Amidst Challenges
Despite these setbacks, Judge has maintained an impressive level of consistency. In 2021, he played in 148 games, followed by 157 games in 2022. So far in the 2023 season, Judge has participated in 120 of the Yankees' 122 games, proving his ability to stay on the field and contribute significantly to his team’s success.
This season, Judge is on track to finish with 57 home runs, which would push his career total to 314 heading into 2025. Over the next four years, he is expected to average 42 home runs per season. This projection puts his career total at a whopping 482 home runs by the end of this period.
Looking at the 500-Home Run Club
Joining the 500-home run club is a prestigious achievement that includes some of the greatest hitters in baseball history. Legends like Barry Bonds (762 home runs), Hank Aaron (755), and Babe Ruth (714) set the standard for long-ball excellence. Contemporary power hitters such as Alex Rodriguez (696), Willie Mays (660), and Ken Griffey Jr. (630) further exemplify the rarified air Judge is expected to join if he continues on his projected pace.
Beyond this elite club, Judge's projected career total of 589 home runs would place him just beyond Hall of Famer Frank Robinson, who ended his career with 586 homers. Other notable members of the 500-home run club include Jim Thome (612), Sammy Sosa (609), Mark McGwire (583), and Harmon Killebrew (571), all of whom Judge could potentially surpass in the coming years.
Longevity and Legacy
Judge's long-term contract with the Yankees, which runs through 2031, ensures that he will have ample opportunities to cement his legacy in pinstripes. The stability of this contract allows both Judge and the Yankees to focus on what they do best—winning games and making history.
Judge's impact on the game goes beyond the numbers. His towering presence at the plate, consistent work ethic, and leadership qualities have made him a beloved figure in New York and a role model for young players everywhere. Whether it's his tape-measure home runs or his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial moments, Judge embodies the spirit of Yankees baseball.
The Road Ahead
Judge's achievements to date and his projected future milestones make it clear that fans should keep their eyes on this generational talent. With his career trajectory pointing toward historic highs, the anticipation of Judge joining the pantheon of baseball’s all-time greats is palpable.
As the 2023 season progresses and Judge continues to add to his home run tally, the baseball world watches in awe. His pursuit of greatness is a testament to his skill, perseverance, and unyielding dedication to the sport. For now, though, he basks in the glow of his latest landmark—300 home runs, and counting.