Aaron Judge has solidified his reputation as one of the most formidable sluggers in MLB history by becoming the fastest player to hit 300 career home runs. This remarkable feat was accomplished on a memorable Wednesday night, achieving the milestone in just his 955th career game—surpassing previous record-holder Ralph Kiner, who reached the same mark in 1,087 games.
Judge’s impressive journey to 300 homers is not only a testament to his power at the plate but also his resilience. Despite missing substantial playing time in several seasons—50 games in 2018, 60 in 2019, and 56 in 2022 due to a nagging toe injury—Judge has showcased his relentless drive and talent. Even with these setbacks, he managed to play 148 games in 2021 and 157 in 2022, and he has already participated in 120 of the Yankees' 122 games this season.
This year, Judge is projected to finish the season with 57 home runs, which would push his career total to 314 heading into the 2025 season. Looking further ahead, analysts project Judge to average about 42 home runs per season over the next four years, potentially bringing his career total to 482 by the end of that period.
Long-term projections suggest that, by the time Judge’s current contract with the Yankees expires in 2031, he could amass a career total of 589 home runs. This would place him just ahead of legends like Frank Robinson, who finished his illustrious career with 586 homers.
Joining the ranks of the elite 500-home run club is no small feat. The prestigious list boasts some of the greatest hitters the game has ever seen, including Barry Bonds (762), Hank Aaron (755), and Babe Ruth (714). Other notable members include Alex Rodriguez with 696 home runs, Willie Mays with 660, and Ken Griffey Jr. with 630. Should Judge continue on his projected path, he could very well join these legends, further etching his name in the annals of baseball history.
However, Judge’s journey has not been without its challenges. The persistent toe injury he describes as requiring "constant maintenance" has been a significant hurdle. Yet, despite these physical setbacks, Judge's performance continues to awe fans and critics alike. His ability to maintain such high levels of productivity and power at the plate speaks volumes about his work ethic and determination.
As the Yankees look toward their continued future with Judge, the question arises: Could he become one of the greatest home run hitters of all time? While only time will tell, Aaron Judge’s trajectory so far suggests that he has the potential to rank among the legendary figures in baseball history.
Whether you're a Yankees fan or simply an admirer of the sport, Judge’s accomplishments provide a thrilling narrative within the MLB. His ability to overcome adversity and consistently deliver underlines not only his skill but also his unwavering commitment to the game. As Judge continues to add to his home run total, fans around the league will undoubtedly watch closely, eagerly anticipating each addition to his already impressive career tally.