Aaron Judge, a towering presence in Major League Baseball, began his professional career with the New York Yankees. Drafted by the Yankees in the first round of the 2013 MLB Draft, Judge quickly rose through the minor league ranks, showcasing his prodigious power and athleticism. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 282 pounds, Judge's physical stature was matched by his ability to hit towering home runs, a skill that would become his trademark.

Judge made his MLB debut on August 13, 2016, against the Tampa Bay Rays. In his first at-bat, he hit a home run, signaling the start of a promising career. Although his rookie season was brief, spanning only 27 games, he demonstrated potential by hitting four home runs and driving in ten runs. However, he also struck out 42 times, highlighting an area for improvement.

The 2017 season marked Judge's breakout year. He became the Yankees' starting right fielder and quickly captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. Judge's performance during the first half of the season earned him a spot in the All-Star Game, where he won the Home Run Derby, becoming the first rookie to do so outright. By the end of the season, Judge had set a new rookie record with 52 home runs, surpassing Mark McGwire's previous record of 49. His impressive stats included 114 RBIs and a .284 batting average. Judge's efforts earned him the American League Rookie of the Year award and a second-place finish in the MVP voting, behind Jose Altuve.

In 2018, Judge continued to be a vital part of the Yankees' lineup, although his season was interrupted by a wrist injury sustained in July. Despite missing nearly two months, he managed to hit 27 home runs and maintain a .278 batting average. Judge returned in time for the postseason, helping the Yankees reach the American League Division Series, where they were defeated by the Boston Red Sox.

The 2019 season saw Judge once again battling injuries, this time an oblique strain that sidelined him for a significant portion of the season. Nevertheless, he played in 102 games, hitting 27 home runs and driving in 55 runs. The Yankees made it to the American League Championship Series, but were eliminated by the Houston Astros.

In the shortened 2020 season, Judge faced further challenges with injuries, including a calf strain that limited his playing time. He appeared in only 28 games, hitting nine home runs with a .257 batting average. The Yankees made it to the postseason but were eliminated in the Division Series by the Tampa Bay Rays.

The 2021 season offered Judge a chance to return to form. He played in 148 games, the most since his rookie season, and hit 39 home runs with 98 RBIs, posting a .287 batting average. His performance earned him a fourth-place finish in the MVP voting. Judge's ability to stay healthy and contribute consistently was a positive sign for the Yankees, who relied on his power and presence in the lineup.

Throughout these years, Judge became known not only for his home run-hitting prowess but also for his defensive skills in right field. His strong arm and ability to cover ground made him an asset to the Yankees' defense. Off the field, Judge was recognized for his leadership qualities and became a fan favorite, known for his humility and professionalism.

Aaron Judge's career during this period was marked by both remarkable achievements and challenges.

⚾