In a standout season that continues to push historical boundaries, Aaron Judge is rapidly solidifying his place among the legends of Major League Baseball. Having already set the American League single-season home run record with 62 blasts in 2022, Judge shows no signs of slowing down, launching 51 home runs thus far in the current season. Projected to finish with 63 home runs, Judge’s relentless power is electrifying baseball fans and setting new standards for offensive prowess.
However, home runs are not Judge’s only contribution. With a current Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 9.4, Judge’s overall impact on the field positions him as an indispensable asset to his team. By season’s end, his WAR could well reach a staggering 11.5, bringing him close to the stratospheric heights attained by Barry Bonds, who posted a WAR of 11.7 back in 2002.
In the midst of Judge’s incredible performance, another star is making headlines: Juan Soto. As a pending free agent, Soto’s impressive season includes 37 home runs, ranking him tied for fourth in the league. His projected total of 45 home runs coupled with his current WAR of 7.5 speaks volumes about his consistent and powerful contributions. Sitting fourth in MLB for WAR, Soto might see his season-long WAR climb to 9.2 by the end of the season, further bolstering his free-agency appeal.
Together, Judge and Soto are promising a formidable combined home run tally of 108 this season. This impressive feat aligns them with only five other pairs of teammates in Major League Baseball history who have collectively reached such heights within a single season. Their combined efforts are stirring memories of the iconic 1961 Yankees, the only team where two players each surpassed 50 home runs in the same season.
Historically, the Yankees have not seen two teammates each achieve a WAR over 10 since 1927, underscoring the exceptional nature of Judge and Soto’s performances. This rare statistical alignment not only highlights their individual abilities but also their synergetic impact on the league.
As the season progresses, all eyes will undoubtedly remain on Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. Whether breaking records or setting a new benchmark for future generations, these remarkable players continue to redefine the standards of excellence in Major League Baseball. Their performances offer not just a glimpse of greatness but a sustained view of what it takes to be among the very best in the game.