Aaron Judge isn’t just the greatest home run hitter in baseball right now, he’s also one of the best at taking them away, too.
The New York Yankees right fielder stole a home run from Seattle Mariners slugger Teoscar Hernández in Monday’s game, reaching over the wall and making the play look almost routine.
Aaron Judge robs Teoscar Hernandez of a solo homer! 😱
Watch LIVE: https://t.co/aRu5PF6QsA pic.twitter.com/hQEHov8oCr
— YES Network (@YESNetwork) May 30, 2023
The play left Hernández understandably stunned.
Teoscar Hernandez in utter shock that Aaron Judge caught that ball. pic.twitter.com/1nTTrsw53M
— Mike Daddino (@mike_daddino) May 30, 2023
The amazing defensive play also led to a great exchange on Twitter between Hernández and Judge shortly after the game. Hernández tweeted, “Why @TheJudge44″
Judged replied, “Brother I’ve seen you hit plenty of HRs over my head over the years! I can have just 1!”
Brother I’ve seen you hit plenty of HRs over my head over the years! I can have just 1!👌😅 https://t.co/mYkiw9Rm5X
— Aaron Judge (@TheJudge44) May 30, 2023
If it seems we’ve all seen this type of play from Judge many times before, it’s because we have. According to SIS Baseball, the analytics site that compiles the often-cited Defensive Runs Saved statistic, Monday’s play marked the 10th time in his career Judge has stolen a home run from someone.
Only two other active players have more, Mike Trout with 12 and Mookie Betts (11).
As an added bonus, SIS compiled a highlight video of all 10 of Judge’s homer-denying catches.
Most HR Robbing Catches – Active Players
Last 20 Seasons (Including Postseason)Mike Trout 12
Mookie Betts 11
Aaron Judge 10Judge snagged his 10th last night against the Mariners
And we can show you all of them … pic.twitter.com/DE22wJeIw8
— SIS_Baseball (@sis_baseball) May 30, 2023
Despite his ability to reach over the wall and take a home run away, Judge is considered only average as a right fielder in terms of defensive metrics. Yet when he makes plays like he did Monday, it’s fun to watch.
