Aaron Judge is not just a name; he’s a force rewriting baseball history. As the New York Yankees’ captain and powerhouse slugger, Judge’s dominance on the diamond in 2025 has reached legendary status. Fans and analysts agree: we are witnessing one of the greatest right-handed hitters of the modern era in action.

Aaron Judge’s Record-Breaking Start to 2025

Judge's 2025 season has stunned even the most seasoned baseball enthusiasts. By early May, Judge was leading the league in batting average, on-base percentage, slugging, OPS, and hits. He also tied for the lead in RBIs. His .423 batting average and prolonged hitting streak have placed him among the ranks of historical giants like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle.

According to ESPN’s in-depth breakdown, Judge is not merely building on his 2022 and 2024 MVP-level seasons; he’s shattering his previous records. With a 1.287 OPS, Judge is lapping much of the league, producing at rates rarely seen since the steroid era. His advanced metrics, such as his 270 wRC+, reinforce the magnitude of his achievements in a league where the average is far lower.

The Greatest Right-Handed Hitter of Modern Times?

Several experts are now calling Aaron Judge the greatest right-handed hitter of the modern baseball era. The Athletic dives into the evidence by comparing his recent 450-game stretch—168 home runs, a .314 average, and jaw-dropping run production—with baseball’s all-time greats like Jimmie Foxx and Albert Pujols. Remarkably, over the last four seasons, Judge has averaged 60 home runs per 162 games and produced runs at a rate more than double the league average.

Unlike many sluggers, Judge combines raw power with a refined approach at the plate. His improved strikeout rates—down to just over 20%—showcase a hitter growing more disciplined, even as he enters his early thirties. This rare combination places him in a league of his own for both durability and production.

Unmatched Power and Consistency

Judge’s ability to hit for power is matched only by his consistency. In May 2025, he hit his 14th home run of the season, a towering 433-foot blast to center field. The MLB highlight provides all the details, including the pitch speed and launch angle that underline his extraordinary skill. Despite pitchers adjusting to his tendencies, Aaron Judge continues to adapt, punishing both fastballs and off-speed pitches with equal authority.

Apart from his impressive stats, Judge stands out for his unique physique. At 6-foot-7 and 282 pounds, he’s poised to become the tallest and heaviest batting champ in the history of the game. This physical dominance translates into unmatched exit velocities and power to all fields.

Historic Comparisons and What Lies Ahead

Aaron Judge’s 2025 start isn’t just a hot streak; it’s a continuation of historic play. Over his last 162 games, he’s hit at a .366 clip with an OPS near 1.264. If he maintains this pace, Judge could become the first player since Mickey Mantle in 1956 to finish a season batting over .350 with at least 50 home runs. Such a feat would further cement his name among baseball’s immortals.

Conclusion: Appreciating Aaron Judge in Real Time

Aaron Judge is changing the conversation about what is possible in baseball. His blend of power, skill, and athleticism makes every at-bat must-see television for Yankees fans and baseball enthusiasts everywhere. As he continues his phenomenal run, now is the time to appreciate a career that will shape MLB history for years to come.

For more deep dives into Judge’s greatness, check out the full ESPN analysis and The Athletic’s perspective on his legacy. Stay tuned—Aaron Judge’s story is far from finished.