Full Breakdown
Aaron Judge's Historic Rise in Yankees' Home Run Rankings
9/12/2025, 12:41:30 AM
Milestone Achievement
On September 5, 2025, Aaron Judge surpassed Yogi Berra to become the fifth player on the New York Yankees' all-time home run list. This milestone comes after Judge tied Berra on August 31, 2025, and reflects Judge's significant contributions to the franchise. As of this achievement, Judge has set his sights on Joe DiMaggio, who holds 361 career home runs.
Background of Yogi Berra
Yogi Berra, a legendary figure in baseball, played 19 seasons with the Yankees, earning 18 All-Star selections and winning 10 World Series championships. His career spanned four decades, and he is remembered not only for his on-field prowess but also for his memorable quotes and mentorship of younger players. Berra's legacy continues to resonate within the Yankees organization, making Judge's achievement particularly poignant.
Aaron Judge's Career Overview
Judge made his MLB debut in 2016, initially struggling but quickly establishing himself as a dominant player. His breakout season in 2017 saw him hit a rookie record of 52 home runs, earning him second place in the MVP voting, a decision clouded by the Houston Astros' cheating scandal. Over the years, Judge faced injuries but consistently returned to form, culminating in a historic 2022 season where he broke the non-enhanced single-season home run record with 62 home runs and won his first MVP award.
In 2023, Judge signed a record-setting nine-year, $360 million contract with the Yankees, becoming the highest-paid player in baseball history. Despite injuries that season, he finished strong, and in 2024, he won his second MVP award while leading the Yankees to the World Series, where they ultimately lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Current Season and MVP Race
As of September 2025, Judge is once again in the MVP conversation, boasting impressive statistics with a .321 batting average, 44 home runs, and a 1.159 OPS. Analysts are debating whether Judge or Seattle Mariners' Cal Raleigh will take home the award, with Judge currently holding a statistical advantage in several categories.
Official Statements & Responses
The New York Yankees celebrated Judge's achievement on social media, emphasizing his place in the franchise's storied history. The organization expressed gratitude for the contributions of both Judge and Berra, highlighting the significance of this milestone in the context of Yankees lore.
Criticism & Opposition
While Judge's accomplishments are widely celebrated, some critics argue that the focus on individual accolades overshadows the team's overall performance, particularly in seasons where the Yankees have failed to advance deep into the playoffs. This perspective raises questions about the balance between personal success and team achievements in baseball.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I want to thank everybody for making this day necessary.” — Aaron Judge
- “Nobody goes there anymore. It’s too crowded.” — Aaron Judge
- “Baseball is 90 percent mental. The other half is physical.” — Aaron Judge
Aaron Judge's ascent in the Yankees' home run rankings not only marks a personal milestone but also cements his legacy within the franchise, drawing parallels to the legendary Yogi Berra. As the 2025 season progresses, Judge's performance will continue to be a focal point in discussions surrounding the MVP race and the Yankees' future.
