Aaron Judge, one of MLB’s most feared hitters, faced a rocky start to the 2024 season, batting just .207 by the end of April. Seeking improvement, the New York Yankees star made a crucial swing adjustment on May 5th. By slightly closing his stance and standing straighter, Judge regained his form, leading the American League with 42 home runs and 106 RBIs as of early August. His changes allowed him to better handle away pitches, particularly sliders, and restored his confidence at the plate.
The Turning Point
On May 5, facing Detroit Tigers ace Tarik Skubal, Judge implemented his new stance, and it paid off immediately. He crushed a 97-mph fastball for a home run, signaling his return to top form. Since then, his batting average against sliders has skyrocketed from .154 to .348, demonstrating the effectiveness of his adjustment. Judge credits the change for improving his comfort and consistency, especially with his front foot placement, which has allowed him to stay on pitches more effectively.
Support from Teammates and Coaches
Judge’s success isn’t just about individual talent; it’s also a result of the Yankees’ collaborative approach. First baseman Anthony Rizzo noticed Judge’s adjustment and emphasized the importance of a hitter’s legs in maintaining balance and timing. Manager Aaron Boone and hitting coach James Rowson also praised Judge’s ability to simplify his approach, making his swing more direct and efficient. They noted that even the best players, like Judge, constantly tweak their mechanics to maintain peak performance.
Strategic Implications
Judge’s resurgence has not gone unnoticed by opposing teams, who have increasingly chosen to pitch around him. Tied for the most intentional walks in MLB, Judge faces the same treatment Barry Bonds once did, as teams prefer to avoid his bat rather than challenge him. Despite this, Judge remains focused on refining his swing, knowing that continued adjustments may be necessary as he chases his next milestone—300 career home runs.
Conclusion
Aaron Judge’s mid-season swing adjustment highlights the constant evolution necessary to excel in MLB. By closing his stance and refining his mechanics, he has reestablished himself as one of the league’s top hitters. As he continues to dominate, fans can expect Judge to keep adapting and pushing the boundaries of his already impressive career.
Leave a Reply