Aaron Judge‘s exceptional talent is evident. Throughout his eight-year career with the New York Yankees, the right fielder has amassed an impressive record of 257 home runs. Notably, he made headlines in 2017 by setting the then-MLB rookie record with 52 homers (a record later surpassed by Pete Alonso in 2019).
Furthermore, in 2022, Judge surpassed Roger Maris’ longstanding mark of 61 homers in a season for the Yankees by hitting an impressive 62 home runs, setting a new American League record.
However, Judge’s prowess extends beyond his remarkable power hitting. Yankees manager Aaron Boone shed light on what sets Judge apart as one of baseball’s premier talents.
Boone expressed to Heavy.com, “His passion for the game is undeniable. While some rely solely on talent, Aaron genuinely adores baseball. To achieve true greatness, you need that love for the game, and he exemplifies it every day.”
Judge’s affection for baseball traces back to his childhood in Linden, Calif. This love persisted through his time at Fresno State and continued when he joined the Yankees after being chosen in the first round of the 2013 amateur draft.
Judge blends skill with enthusiasm.
It’s advantageous when a player merges a passion for the game with exceptional skill, and Aaron Judge embodies this. His debut season of 52 home runs, which earned him the AL Rookie of the Year award, was just the beginning. He further solidified his reputation by capturing the AL MVP title with his impressive 62-home run season. Additionally, Judge’s accolades include five All-Star Game selections and three Silver Slugger awards.
Nevertheless, according to Boone, it’s Judge’s dedication behind the scenes that has propelled him to become one of baseball’s most prominent figures at the age of 31.
Boone remarked, “The actual act of playing is what often gets the spotlight, but it’s the less glamorous aspects of preparation throughout the year that truly matter, and Aaron thoroughly enjoys those aspects.”
Scouts commonly regard a player’s mental makeup as their “sixth tool,” complementing their skills in hitting for average, hitting for power, running, fielding, and throwing. Boone describes Judge’s mental makeup as “exceptional,” surpassing typical standards.
Boone expressed, “Externally, Aaron exudes humility and a gentle demeanor, but internally, he possesses a fierce determination that I witness regularly. Beyond his talent, he demonstrates outstanding character, work ethic, resilience, and he epitomizes the ideal teammate. Those who have had the privilege to play alongside him hold him in high regard and admiration.”
Judge was destined to be a part of the Yankees organization from the start.
As a rookie, Judge earned a significant accolade from Suzyn Waldman, a seasoned analyst on Yankees radio broadcasts, who remarked that Judge seemed destined to be a Yankee.
However, being a part of the Yankees isn’t suited for everyone. The immense media scrutiny in the nation’s largest market can feel overwhelming, and Yankees fans consistently expect nothing short of a World Series victory every season. While the franchise boasts an impressive 27 titles, the team hasn’t clinched one since 2009.
However, Judge manages everything with grace. He’s immensely popular among fans and has steered clear of controversies throughout his eight-year tenure in the Bronx. In many aspects, he’s akin to a contemporary version of Derek Jeter.
Boone commented, “He’s perfectly suited for Yankees baseball. He’s incredibly self-assured and at ease with himself. His parents have done an excellent job raising him, instilling genuine humility in him. Yet, alongside that humility, there’s an unmistakable drive and confidence that he carries with him daily. He’s not just a remarkable player but also an exceptional individual.”
