Aaron Judge Makes History with 51st Homer and Steals Spotlight as MLB’s Only Three-Time 50 HR, Double-Digit Steals Player
Aaron Judge delivered a power-packed performance on Wednesday night, blasting two home runs to propel his season total to an impressive 51. In doing so, he etched his name alongside some of baseball’s greatest legends. While many of these records feature the likes of Babe Ruth, Judge also made history in a category all his own.
Unique Accomplishment in MLB History
Baseball Reference’s Katie Sharp highlighted a remarkable statistic: Judge is now the only player in MLB history to achieve the feat of hitting 50 or more home runs and stealing double-digit bases in three separate seasons. This milestone not only underscores his power-hitting prowess but also emphasizes his versatility on the field.
Judge’s ability to contribute to his team in multiple ways—beyond just launching home runs—demonstrates his commitment to winning. The combination of power and speed is indeed rare, especially for someone of his stature, standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing over 280 pounds.
Joining the Elite Club
In addition to this unique achievement, Judge joined an elite club of just three other players—Babe Ruth, Mark McGwire, and Sammy Sosa—who have each hit 50 home runs in four different seasons. However, those players were never regarded as significant threats on the bases, unlike Judge, who has shown that he can be a dynamic player both at the plate and on the base paths.
This distinction places Judge in a league of his own, particularly as he has the potential to become the first player in history to hit 50 home runs in five different seasons. His prowess as an outfielder also adds to his value, showcasing not just power but an exceptional skill set that includes a strong throwing arm and surprising speed on the bases.
A Special Player
Judge’s combination of size, speed, and skill makes him a truly special player in today’s game. As he continues to chase records and redefine what it means to be a power hitter, his contributions will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come. The baseball world watches with bated breath as he not only aims to maintain his status as a premier slugger but also to further add to his legacy as a well-rounded athlete.
