MLB

Aaron Judge’s teammate quietly emerging as key weapon for Yankees

It doesn’t all have to be about Aaron Judge’s power. This year, the New York Yankees have rediscovered that they have a player who’s been a major contributor to winning games without being an everyday starter.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 15:  Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees celebrates the win over the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium on April 15, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City. All players are wearing the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day. The New York Yankees defeated the Kansas City Royals 4-2.
© Getty ImagesNEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 15: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees celebrates the win over the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium on April 15, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City. All players are wearing the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day. The New York Yankees defeated the Kansas City Royals 4-2.

Aaron Judge has all kinds of teammates who know how to contribute to New York Yankees wins, and one of them has stepped into a bigger role this year, steadily earning his spot on the roster thanks to his home run production.

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While Judge leads the Yankees in home runs, it’s worth noting that another teammate, with 21 homers this season, has been one of the players saving the team in big moments — and the numbers back it up.

Nine Yankees have reached double digits in home runs this season, and that’s where the stat really stands out. This particular Judge teammate ranks second on the team in homers, and while his batting average isn’t stellar, his production has consistently helped the Bombers tie games or take the lead against opponents.

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Who is Judge’s teammate making noise?

According to Katie Sharp of Stats Head, the player is Trent Grisham, who with 21 homers has become a key factor in helping the Yankees tie or add runs in crucial situations — without challenging Judge’s overall home run lead.

Trent Grisham #12 of the New York Yankees celebrates with teammates in the dugout

Trent Grisham #12 of the New York Yankees celebrates with teammates in the dugout after hitting a three run home run in the fifth inning during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on April 5, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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“Trent Grisham: 16 of his 21 HR (76%) have either tied the game or given his team the lead,” Sharp reported of Grisham’s moonshot stats this year. “That’s the highest percentage among all players with 10+ HR this season.”

It’s worth remembering that Grisham didn’t have nearly as impactful a role last MLB season, as the team prioritized stars like Juan Soto. But so far this year, Trent has proven to be one of the Yankees’ most reliable bats in big moments.

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