Aaron Judge joins legends club with historic 9.0 bWAR season, cementing status among baseball’s all-time batting greats

Aaron Judge’s Historic Season Elevates Him Among Baseball’s Legends

Aaron Judge is once again showcasing his remarkable talent for the New York Yankees, solidifying his status as one of the game’s premier hitters. This season, Judge has reached an impressive milestone, currently sitting at 9.0 Wins Above Replacement (bWAR) as tracked by Baseball Reference. This achievement places him in an elite category, shared only by three players over the last half-century: Barry Bonds, Mike Trout, and Alex Rodriguez.

Joining an Elite Club

The rarity of Judge’s accomplishments cannot be overstated. Only Bonds, with eight seasons, Trout, and Rodriguez, each with four, have matched the feat of recording three or more seasons with a bWAR of 9.0 or higher. The significance of this isn’t just about numbers; it reflects sustained excellence that few have achieved in such a competitive arena.

Historic OPS+ Performance

In addition to his bWAR, Judge is poised to secure a second consecutive season with an OPS+ of 200 or better, a benchmark achieved by only six other players in Major League Baseball history. This distinguished group includes legends like Babe Ruth, Rogers Hornsby, Jimmie Foxx, Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, and Bonds himself. Such comparisons underscore the magnitude of Judge’s performance this year, as he continues to evoke memories of baseball’s golden era.

Chasing the AL MVP

As the regular season winds down, Judge has just one more week to further enhance his statistics, with the American League MVP award in his sights. The competition may be fierce, particularly against players like Cal Raleigh, but regardless of the outcome, Judge’s impact on the field is undeniable. His ability to consistently deliver in high-pressure situations only adds to his growing legacy.

Judge’s extraordinary season not only reflects his individual talent but also positions him among the all-time greats in baseball history. Whether or not he secures the MVP title, his contributions to the game will be remembered long after the final pitch is thrown.