As the 2023 MLB season approaches, New York Yankees fans eagerly anticipate the return of star outfielder Aaron Judge.
Captain Aaron Judge had a dream run in the 2022 MLB season. The 6-foot-7 slugger, on the edge of entering free agency, played wearing his heart up his sleeves. With much to prove, Judge recorded one of the most successful offensive seasons in the history of MLB. In 157 game appearances, he scored 62 home runs, 133 runs, and 131 RBIs with a batting average of .311.
However, the team, New York Yankees, fell short of the World Series Title by losing to Houston Astros in the ALCS. Hence, this year, with a brand new captaincy badge on the pinstripes, Aaron Judge is set to take his team through the finish line. To achieve that dream, the slugger must have a strong offensive season. While recreating a record-breaking home run season is next to impossible, if there is anyone out there who stands a chance, it’s Judge himself.
Fans Predict Aaron Judge’s Home Run Count For The 2023 Season
Aaron Judge won his first-ever American League MVP award as a result of his 2022 offensive season. Hence, while entering this season, the expectations are sky-high. Even the slugger has a sense of it but is not letting it mess with his head. When asked about recreating the 2022 season, Judge did not rule it out and said anything could happen if the tone stays right. However, the Yankees fans feel otherwise.
Recently, SB Nation Reacts conducted a survey, asking the New York Yankees fans to share their thoughts on Aaron Judge’s final home run count for the 2023 season. The majority of the participants, 55%, believe Judge will end up getting 46-55 home runs, which seems a reasonable number. However, 17% of the portion have immense faith in the slugger and believe he can recreate the 62 home run record. Regardless, irrespective of the number of homers, Aaron Judge is a force to be reckoned with and will play a crucial role in the team’s success.
Yankees Fans Back Their Home Team To Retain The AL-East Title
Along with the Aaron Judge query, the survey also asked people to predict the American League East Division winner. The New York Yankees won the title last year with a record of 99 wins. Hence, this year, 42% of the fans have instilled their faith and backed the Bombers to retain the ultimate title. However, 40% do believe the Toronto Blue Jays will give tough competition and will likely reign in the East Division.
While winning the East Division is the toughest task, as it’s one of the most competitive divisions in MLB. Hence, even the Yankees, who have been bossing the East for quite a while now, will have to toil hard to defend their title. Nonetheless, the fans are in for a treat as all the players will put their best foot forward and will produce high-quality baseball games.