Do We Truly Grasp What We’re Watching?
That’s the recurring question in my mind as I observe Aaron Judge play for the New York Yankees. While we all recognize his exceptional talent, are we aware that he is performing at a level that goes well beyond exceptional?
He is now stepping into the realm of all-time greats. In fact, he’s potentially earned a label that should be used with care: the greatest right-handed hitter of modern baseball.
Before you start with your objections, let me clarify that I welcome comparisons to legends like Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, and others in this conversation. Now, back to my initial question: do we comprehend what we’re witnessing?
Take a moment to examine the stats; we might never see these kinds of numbers again in our lifetime.
Stellar Numbers to Reflect On
In the first 34 games this season, Judge posted remarkable stats: .423/.510/.777/1.287, featuring 11 home runs and a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 261, along with a batting average surpassing any other AL hitter’s on-base percentage. Impressive, right?
In the last year alone, he maintained a slash line of .371/.496/1.283, hitting 64 home runs, with a wRC+ of 252. We could easily call such a performance “Ruthian.”
Astonishing Long-Term Performance
Across the last four seasons, since the beginning of 2022, Judge has put up astounding numbers: .314/.439/.682/1.121 with 168 home runs and a 207 wRC+. This translates to an average of 60 home runs per 162 games, a rate that signifies a place among baseball’s elite.
Considering a 450-game stretch, Judge’s achievements stand out. During this period, he hit 168 home runs, surpassing all but two other right-handed hitters in the past century. And unlike those two, he does not carry any asterisks next to his accomplishments.
Breaking Historical Boundaries
Since Opening Day 2022, Judge’s performance has been unprecedented. An average of 207 wRC+ over more than 450 games is astonishing, as only one right-handed hitter in the past century achieved a season with such a mark. That brings us back to Judge’s stunning season last year with a wRC+ of 218.
The greatness of Judge can’t truly be captured in numbers alone. His remarkable 50 hits in March and April surpassed even the combined total of notable players like Jose Altuve and Mookie Betts in that timeframe. His .423 average over those games cements his status in a league of his own.
So, do you comprehend the magnitude of what you’re witnessing? If not, you certainly should by now. You’re witnessing greatness in the form of Aaron Judge!
