Aaron Judge’s Historic 300th Home Run Sets New MLB Record
On a remarkable Wednesday night, Aaron Judge etched his name in Major League Baseball history by becoming the fastest player to reach the milestone of 300 career home runs. This extraordinary achievement was reached in just his 955th career game, surpassing the previous record held by Ralph Kiner, who needed 1,087 games to accomplish the feat.
The Yankees' powerhouse has continually proven himself to be a formidable presence at the plate. Since joining the league, Judge's consistency and power have been nothing short of awe-inspiring. He played 148 games in 2021, 157 games in 2022, and has participated in 120 of the Yankees' first 122 games in the 2023 season. Despite recurring injuries, including significant absences of 50 games in 2018, 60 in 2019, and another 56 in 2022 due to a toe injury, Judge has demonstrated resilience and determination.
Judge’s performance this season shows no signs of decline. He is projected to end the year with 57 home runs, which will bring his career total to 314 heading into the 2025 season. This projection, combined with his calculated average of 42 home runs annually over the next four years, forecasts a career total of 482 home runs by the end of that period.
Such projections place Judge in a unique position within the annals of baseball history. Membership in the elite 500-home run club features legends like Barry Bonds (762), Hank Aaron (755), and Babe Ruth (714). Further iconic figures like Alex Rodriguez with 696, Willie Mays with 660, and Ken Griffey Jr. with 630 home runs solidify the prestige of this group. If Judge maintains his trajectory, he is well on his way to joining these baseball titans.
A contract with the Yankees that extends through 2031 affords Judge ample time to continue his climb up the home run leaderboard. If he achieves the projected total of 589 home runs, Judge will sit just beyond the legendary Frank Robinson, who retired with 586 home runs. This would place Judge among the likes of Jim Thome (612), Sammy Sosa (609), and Reggie Jackson (563), further cementing his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
However, this journey has not been without challenges. Reflecting on his battle with injuries, Judge describes his toe injury as requiring "constant maintenance." This persistent issue hasn’t hindered his ability to perform at elite levels, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the sport.
The baseball community eagerly watches as Judge continues to redefine greatness at the plate. His career thus far serves not only as a testament to his individual skill and perseverance but also as an inspiration for the next generation of sluggers. As he continues to shatter records and carve out his place in baseball history, fans and players alike remain captivated by each powerful swing and towering home run.