Aaron Judge Sets MLB Record with 300th Career Home Run
On a memorable Wednesday night, Aaron Judge cemented his place in Major League Baseball history by hitting his 300th career home run. Achieving this monumental feat in just his 955th career game, Judge has become the fastest player in MLB history to reach the 300-home run milestone. This astonishing accomplishment surpasses the previous record held by Ralph Kiner, who reached 300 home runs in 1,087 games.
Judge's journey to this record has been nothing short of remarkable, especially given the challenges he's faced along the way. In 2021, he played in 148 games, followed by 157 games in the 2022 season. This year, he has participated in 120 of the Yankees' 122 games, showcasing his resilience and determination to be on the field despite the physical toll.
The Yankees' star has had to navigate around significant injuries, missing 50 games in 2018, 60 in 2019, and another 56 games in 2022 due to a nagging toe injury. Speaking about the impact of his injury, Judge candidly described it as requiring "constant maintenance."
Despite these setbacks, Judge's power at the plate has remained unwavering. He is projected to end this season with 57 home runs, pushing his career total to an impressive 314 heading into the 2025 season. Over the next four years, Judge is expected to average an impressive 42 home runs per season. By the end of that period, his projected career home run total will stand at a staggering 482.
Judge's contract with the Yankees, which runs through 2031, sets the stage for potentially even greater milestones. Should he maintain his projected home run pace, he will undoubtedly find his name alongside the greatest power hitters in baseball history. The rarefied 500-home run club includes legends such as Barry Bonds (762), Hank Aaron (755), Babe Ruth (714), and Alex Rodriguez (696), to name a few.
Reaching 500 home runs is a pinnacle that many sluggers dream of but few achieve. Judge's projected career total of 589 home runs would place him just beyond the legendary Frank Robinson, who concluded his career with 586 home runs. This puts into perspective the extraordinary trajectory that Judge is on and the historical significance of his accomplishments.
The pantheon of MLB's home run giants includes Willie Mays (660 home runs), Ken Griffey Jr. (630), Jim Thome (612), Sammy Sosa (609), Mark McGwire (583), Harmon Killebrew (571), Rafael Palmeiro (569), Reggie Jackson (563), and Manny Ramirez (555). As Judge continues to etch his name into the annals of baseball history, he is poised to join this elite group of sluggers.
Judge's consistency and power-hitting prowess have made him a cornerstone of the Yankees' lineup and a fan favorite. His ability to deliver clutch performances and electrifying home runs has left an indelible mark on the sport. As he continues to build on his impressive career, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, anticipating the milestones and records he has yet to achieve.
In the grand tapestry of Major League Baseball, Aaron Judge’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and unparalleled talent. As he stands on the precipice of even greater achievements, there is no doubt that Judge will continue to thrill fans and make history with every swing of the bat.