The MLB universe, including fans, coaches, analysts, and fellow players, were shocked when Aaron Judge rejected a $213 million contract extension from the New York Yankees right before the start of the season.
But Judge thinks he is worth more, and he has the right to pursue more.
He bet on himself to have a strong 2022 and earn as much money as possible after the season, as a free agent.
It’s fair to say his personal bet is paying off handsomely.
After Tuesday’s two-homer performance, Judge leads MLB with 14 long balls and looks determined to at least pursue his personal best.
He hit 52 homers in 2017, when he was a rookie, and hasn’t been able to approach that total ever since.
If he can avoid any major injuries, we could see a record-breaking performance from Judge.
An MLB analyst made a colorful comparison between Judge and a fellow New York star.
He said, “if Lindor is worth 341 million, Judge is worth around 900 million.”
If Lindor is worth 341 million, Judge is worth around 900 million.
— Sal Licata (@sal_licata) May 18, 2022
Judge Is Making Sure He Gets Paid
It was a playful comparison, but if we remove the actual numbers (MLB is probably not ready to hand a $900 million contract), it’s right to some extent.
No one is saying Lindor is a bad ballplayer: he is really, really good, with elite defense and a potent bat, not to mention sky-high instincts and baseball IQ.
But Judge is on another tier.
He is currently slashing .315/.384/.692 with 14 round-trippers, 30 runs, and 30 RBI, with solid defense in right and center field when he has been called upon in both positions.
He is currently sporting a 1.076 OPS, which would be a career-high.
He won’t get $900 million, but $300 is not out of the question.
He is a game-changing talent and will be paid as such.
NEXT: Yankees Seek To Join An Exclusive Club Wednesday Night