On Wednesday night, Aaron Judge etched his name into the annals of baseball history by hitting his 300th career home run, achieving this impressive milestone faster than anyone in MLB history. Judge accomplished this feat in just his 955th career game, breaking the previous record held by Ralph Kiner, who reached the 300 home run mark in 1,087 games.
Judge's rapid ascent to 300 home runs is even more remarkable considering the challenges he has faced throughout his career. Despite missing significant playing time due to injuries, Judge has consistently been a powerful and dynamic force at the plate. He missed 50 games in 2018, 60 in 2019, and 56 in 2022 due to a toe injury, yet his ability to hit home runs has never wavered.
This season, Judge is projected to end with 57 home runs, which would bring his career total to 314 as he heads into 2025. Over the next four years, he is expected to average 42 home runs per season, which would see his career total rise to 482 by the end of that period. Notably, Judge's contract with the New York Yankees runs through 2031, providing ample opportunity for him to continue adding to his homer tally.
Reaching the rarefied air of the 500-home run club is a realistic possibility for Judge, should he maintain his current pace and health. This exclusive club features legendary names such as Barry Bonds (762), Hank Aaron (755), and Babe Ruth (714), with more recent luminaries like Alex Rodriguez (696) and Willie Mays (660) also among the elite group.
To put Judge's potential into perspective, if he hits the projected total of 589 home runs by the end of his career, he would surpass the likes of Hall of Famers Frank Robinson (586), Harmon Killebrew (571), and Reggie Jackson (563). These projections are a testament to Judge's power and consistency at the plate, even in the face of physical setbacks.
When discussing his career and the impact of injuries, Judge has been candid about the ongoing challenges he faces. Referring to his persistent toe injury, Judge stated it requires "constant maintenance," highlighting the rigorous effort he has to put into staying game-ready. This dedication underscores his commitment to the sport and his team, as he continues to perform at an elite level despite these hurdles.
Judge's journey and milestones are not only a testament to his talent but also to his resilience. With 148 games played in 2021, 157 in 2022, and 120 of the Yankees' 122 games this season, Judge's presence on the field has been a cornerstone for the Yankees' lineup. His ability to overcome adversity and still deliver exceptional performances serves as an inspiration to both his teammates and fans alike.
The trajectory of Judge's career, given his current pace and projections, will undoubtedly place him among some of baseball's greatest power hitters. As he continues to build on his impressive resume, the baseball world will be watching, eagerly anticipating his every at-bat and the historic milestones that lie ahead.