Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees' captain, has solidified his place in MLB history by becoming only the third player to achieve 50+ home runs, 30+ doubles, 120+ walks, and 130+ RBIs in a single season.
In a thrilling Friday night battle between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox, Aaron Judge etched his name into the annals of baseball history with a thunderous grand slam in the seventh inning. The blast not only clinched a come-from-behind victory for the Yankees but also catapulted Judge into a coveted class of MLB players.
With his grand slam, Judge reached a statistical milestone achieved by only two other players in the history of the game: the legendary Babe Ruth and Barry Bonds. In 1920 and 1921, Ruth accomplished this feat, while Bonds replicated it in 2001.
Aaron Judge Joins Elite MLB History with Grand Slam Blast
Judge's grand slam was the icing on the cake of his 2-for-4 performance, which also included a crucial first-inning walk. This walk marked his 120th of the season, fulfilling one of the four criteria for this elusive statistical achievement. The grand slam, meanwhile, brought his RBI total to an impressive 130, fulfilling the final requirement.
The 32-year-old Judge has been consistently delivering spectacular performances throughout the 2024 season, bolstering his case for a second MVP award in three seasons. His .321 batting average, combined with his MLB-leading 52 home runs and 130 RBIs, is a testament to his exceptional talent.
Aaron Judge Joins Elite MLB History with Grand Slam Blast
Judge's grand slam was particularly significant as it snapped a 16-game homerless streak, the longest of his career. The six-time All-Star had previously set an American League record for most home runs in a season with 62 in 2022, leading to speculations that he might surpass his own record this year.
The grand slam also proved timely, as it put the Yankees ahead 5-4 in a tightly contested game. The victory extended New York's lead in the American League East to three games over the Baltimore Orioles, who lost to the Detroit Tigers.
Aaron Judge Joins Elite MLB History with Grand Slam Blast
With the Yankees' next game against the Red Sox on Saturday, Judge will have the opportunity to further solidify his place in the history books and propel his team closer to a division title. The grand slam blast against Boston has not only showcased Judge's exceptional skills but has also solidified the Yankees' position as a formidable force in the AL East.
Judge's inclusion in this exclusive group of MLB legends serves as a fitting tribute to his remarkable abilities. The grand slam was not only a game-winning hit but a testament to his unwavering determination and his place among the greats. As the Yankees continue their pursuit of a playoff berth, Judge's performance will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in their success.
