The New York Yankees knew that Aaron Judge had to spend his entire career as a Yankee.
He is everything that the organization represents, not to mention he is one of the best players in baseball.
There was a reason the Yankees gave him the captain label heading into this season.
But, the season he put together last year seemed like one that could not be repeated.
Judge set the AL record for home runs in a season with 62.
He is on pace to have another historic season this year.
According to Bob Nightengale, Judge’s stats through May are very similar to last season’s.
Just when you didn't think Aaron Judge could duplicate his historic 2022 MVP season:
2022 through May 31:
.309/.376/.669/1.044
18 HRs, 37 RBI, 38 runs, 54 hits, 27 extra-base hits.
2023 through May 31:
.298/.410/.679/1.088
18 HRs, 39 RBI, 41 runs, 50 hits, 28 extra-base hits.— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) June 1, 2023
It is hard to believe Judge can replicate last season’s success.
But, he is certainly off to a good start.
Also, Judge is putting up these massive numbers despite already having an IL stint.
Just like last year, for the Yankees to be competitive they need Judge to be dominant.
The AL East is as competitive as ever this year.
All five teams in the division have a record above .500.
The Yankees are 34-24 and are in third place.
The AL East could legitimately have three playoff teams this year.
It will be interesting to see how aggressive the Yankees are at the trade deadline.
They could use another good bat around Judge, which could help push them over the top.
If not, Judge will once again be asked to put up a monumental season for the Yankees to get back to the playoffs.
NEXT: Yankees Fans Celebrate A Surprising Star From May
