In both the NBA and NFL, debates surrounding the “GOAT” are ever-present. However, the MLB doesn’t see quite the same level of debate, as each season brings a fresh batch of outstanding players who reshape the landscape. Still, when it comes to the conversation about the GOAT, one name consistently emerges: Babe Ruth. The New York Yankees legend was recently matched by Aaron Judge, who equaled some of Ruth’s remarkable statistics during one of the most memorable seasons in franchise history.
While different eras and contexts separate the two, it’s rare in Yankees history to find a player who can claim to have matched one of Ruth’s best seasons. In this case, Judge’s numbers align closely with some of Ruth’s most impressive stats from the 1927 season, nearly 100 years later.
Undoubtedly, many great players have worn the Yankees uniform, but Judge’s remarkable performance has made it clear just how much of an impact he is having on the team. Over his last 134 regular-season games, Judge has posted the following stats: .358 batting average, .492 on-base percentage, .802 slugging percentage, 58 home runs, and 142 RBIs.
For comparison, Ruth‘s 1927 season saw him record: .356 batting average, .486 on-base percentage, .772 slugging percentage, 60 home runs, and 165 RBIs. While Judge has outpaced Ruth in batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and RBIs, he’s just two home runs shy of surpassing Ruth’s legendary 1927 total.
Judge still has work to do
The Yankees are counting on Judge for the challenges ahead, but there’s still much for him to accomplish if he hopes to solidify his place as a franchise legend. Despite his impressive numbers since joining the team in 2016, Judge is still without a World Series title.
Although he came close last year, the Yankees are still chasing their first championship in 16 years. Judge has worked tirelessly to feel secure on the field, but several factors have disrupted his plans to hoist the World Series trophy.
Ruth’s legacy with the Yankees
Babe Ruth is often regarded as the greatest of all time in baseball, a title he earned through his numerous accolades in MLB. In addition to his legendary career, Ruth won seven World Series titles, four of which came with the Yankees, posting remarkable numbers during his tenure in New York.
Ruth was a one-time MVP, earned both the ERA title and the batting title, and made two All-Star appearances. He also participated in 23 playoff series with the Boston Red Sox and Yankees, a feat few players in history can claim.