Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees captain and formidable slugger, is often referred to as the home run king for his audacious ability to hit towering hits. He broke the all-time high homer record in 2022 and won his career first AL-MVP. This year, as well, Judge is set on the same path.
After a sorry month of April, Aaron Judge went ballistic in May to land back into the MVP conversations. He is not only leading the league in home run tally but is also tipped to recreate the magical milestone of the 2022 season. However, despite nuclear form, Judge has decided to skip the home run contest for this year.
Aaron Judge Confirms Withdrawal From 2024 Season Home Run Derby
New York Yankees slugger and MLB home run leader Aaron Judge has announced that he will skip the 2024 Home Run Derby. This decision, coming from one of baseball’s most prolific power hitters, has surprised many fans and pundits alike, especially given Judge’s storied history with the event. The captain last featured in the derby in 2017 during his rookie year and won the contest on debut itself. Since then, Judge has been a no-show at the derby. This year, with the rediscovered form, the former AL-MVP was expected to participate in the derby. However, he confirmed to the NY Post that he will be skipping the event altogether. Regardless, Aaron has yet to hang his boots completely.
“I’m not done with it. Once it’s back in New York, I’ll be there,” Aaron Judge told the NY Post. New York last hosted a home run derby in 2013 at the Mets’ home ground in Citi Field, whereas the Yankee Stadium last had a derby way back in 2008. That being said, with the All-Star venues booked for the next two years, the New York Yankees can potentially contest in 2026 to bag the hosting right for the All-Star game and probably the home run derby as well. Until then, Judge will continue to focus on the season. His ultimate goal is to win the championship for the Yanks. Hence, the captain is committed to channeling his energy into the right areas. That being said, with 28 home runs in 78 games, the slugger is currently the favorite to win the home run leader award. However, teammate Juan Soto is expected to give serious competition to his captain.
Judge Moved To DH After Giancarlo Stanton’s Injury
New York Yankees slugger, Giancarlo Stanton has picked up a hamstring injury and has been placed on 10-day IL on Sunday in what marks his first IL stint of the year. Stanton says he will be required to miss four weeks but will strive for quicker recovery.
That being said, in the aftermath of Stanton’s injury, the New York Yankees hitting lineup has undergone changes. Aaron Judge has been moved to DH spot with Trent Grisham taking center field. Moreover, Aaron Boone confirmed that Aaron Judge will see more DH days from now on, with Stanton on IL.
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