A Historic Month: June 2024 Dominance

In June 2024, New York Yankees star Aaron Judge delivered a performance that redefined power hitting. Over 25 games, he posted a staggering .409 batting average, .525 on-base percentage, and .841 slugging percentage, with 11 home runs and 37 RBIs. This made him the first player since Barry Bonds (2001) to achieve a .400+ batting average and 10+ homers in a single month.

The June 30 Showdown

Against the Toronto Blue Jays on June 30, Judge hit his 31st home run of the season—a two-run shot off Kevin Gausman. This not only secured a 8-1 Yankees victory but also moved him past Bernie Williams into 10th place on the franchise’s all-time home run list. His pace to 31 homers was nearly two weeks faster than his own 2022 AL-record pace.

Season-Long Statistical Mastery

Judge’s June performance was part of an historic 2024 campaign. He finished the regular season with:

• 58 home runs (second to his 2022 AL-record 62)
• 1.159 OPS (league-leading)
• Career-high .322 batting average
• 144 RBIs and 133 walks

These achievements earned him his second AL MVP award, solidifying his status as the era’s top right-handed hitter.

Team Success and Playoffs Drama

Judge’s leadership propelled the Yankees to a 94-68 record and their first AL East title since 2022. Their lineup, featuring Juan Soto’s 41 homers and .988 OPS, ranked among baseball’s most potent. However, their World Series hopes ended abruptly when the Los Angeles Dodgers rallied from a 5-0 deficit in Game 5 to win the championship. Despite a clutch two-run home run and a memorable defensive catch, Judge’s critical error shifted momentum in the deciding game.

Legacy and Future Ambitions

At age 32 with 240 career home runs, Judge remains on track to challenge Yankees legends like Mickey Mantle and Babe Ruth. His resilience—overcoming injuries and early-season struggles—has made him a fan favorite. As the Yankees aim to end their 15-year championship drought in 2025, Judge vows to “rewrite the script” and lead them back to glory.

Key Terms

MLB home run records | Aaron Judge stats | New York Yankees history | AL MVP awards | World Series drama