The New York Yankees slugger becomes the first player in MLB to reach 50 homers this season, pacing for 63 by the end of the regular season.
In a historic display of power, Aaron Judge has launched his 50th and 51st home runs for the New York Yankees this season, putting him on the cusp of rewriting the American League home run record books.
Judge, who shattered the Yankees' single-season home run record with 62 home runs in 2022, is now in position to surpass his own mark. With 31 games remaining in the regular season, he is on pace for 63 homers, a remarkable feat that would solidify his status as one of the greatest home run hitters of all time.
Aaron Judge Blasts 50th and 51st Home Runs, Chasing American League Record
The man in the Bronx continues his torrid run, becoming the first player in MLB to reach 50 home runs this season. The next closest is Los Angeles Angels superstar Shohei Ohtani, who has 41 home runs to his credit.
Judge's first homer of the day came in the bottom of the first inning against Colorado Rockies starter Austin Gomber. The left-handed pitcher threw an 0-2 changeup that was just high enough for Judge to wait back and unleash a powerful swing. The ball soared into left-center field, clearing the fence and giving the Yankees a 2-1 lead.
Aaron Judge Blasts 50th and 51st Home Runs, Chasing American League Record
His second homer came in the bottom of the seventh inning, a solo shot off Jeff Criswell that put the Yankees up 5-3. Judge has now homered in three of his first nine seasons, a feat unprecedented in MLB history.
With his 18th first-inning homer of the season, Judge tied former Yankee Alex Rodriguez for the most in a single season.
Aaron Judge Blasts 50th and 51st Home Runs, Chasing American League Record
Judge's pursuit of his own home run record has drawn comparisons to the legendary Barry Bonds. Some teams have begun intentionally walking Judge to avoid giving up home runs, a testament to the fear he instills in opposing pitchers.
Boston Red Sox legend David Ortiz recently praised Judge's exceptional abilities. "Man, that guy's a beast," Ortiz told Fox News Digital. "He has all the tools and is at another level body-wise. He's just special."
Whether Judge can match or surpass his own record remains to be seen. However, with a month remaining in the regular season, Judge is showing no signs of slowing down. His historic chase for 63 home runs is captivating MLB fans and etching his name further into the annals of baseball history.
