The 2025 season has been historic for Aaron Judge, not only because of his home runs, but also because of the way opposing teams have decided to face him: by avoiding him
The New York Yankees outfielder has received 35 intentional walks, setting a new American League record and surpassing Ted Williams’ mark of 34 in 1957, according to STATS.
A record that reflects respect and fear
The strategy of opposing pitchers has been clear: don’t give him the chance to do damage. Judge has been intentionally walked in key moments, even with runners on base, as happened against the White Sox, when he was walked in the ninth inning, setting the stage for Jose Caballero‘s walk-off.
The most walked since 2010
With his 35 intentional walks, Judge becomes the player with the most such passes in a single season since 2010, when Albert Pujols received 38. He also surpasses Mexican Adrian Gonzalez, who received 35 that same year.
Absolute record for the Yankees
Judge had already surpassed the franchise record held by Mickey Mantle (23 in 1957) since July. With 102 career intentional walks, he now ranks third in Yankees history, trailing only Don Mattingly (136) and Mantle himself (126).
Judge’s power forces a change in the game
Aaron Judge’s season has been highlighted not only by his home runs and batting average, but also by how he has forced teams to rethink their strategies. His record for intentional walks is a sign of the respect, and fear, he generates at the plate. With the playoffs just around the corner, pitchers will have to decide whether to face him or continue to give up bases and opportunities.
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