SAN FRANCISCO — Aaron Judge’s Struggling Start to the Season

In the first three games of this season, only Seattle’s Cal Lowry has racked up more strikeouts than Aaron Judge. So far, Judge has managed just two hits, both of which were home runs that helped the Yankees secure victories, including a 3-1 win against the Giants at Oracle Park on Saturday.

“It’s still early in the season, he’s finding it,” Aaron Boone commented on Judge’s performance. “He’s like no one else. His hits include two big home runs. Right now, he’s playing a different game.”

Currently, Judge’s career total stands at 370 home runs, which places him in a tie with Gil Hodges for 83rd on the all-time list.

Additionally, Judge surpassed New York home run legend Ralph Kiner, who finished with 369 home runs, during the Saturday game.

Ironically, the next player ahead of Judge is his teammate, Paul Goldschmidt, who has 372 home runs and is still active in his pursuit.

But amidst all these achievements, Judge’s focus is singular: he’s yearning for a World Series title, the elusive “number 1” that truly matters to him.

Before the Yankees’ latest win, Judge articulated his priority: “My job is not to win MVP. It’s about winning games. Sure, MVPs are nice, but they can distract from the ultimate goal of getting the Yankees back to the top.” And, well, that’s really what it comes down to for him.

Judge also shared his personal reflections, stating, “I’m just thinking about what I missed—not the All-Star Game or the MVP. It’s more about wins or losses. Not having that championship is what always stings.”

As the season unfolds, those feelings remain prevalent, irrespective of the numbers Judge puts up.

While a handful of wins in March might not seem significantly impactful, it’s something positive, especially since the Yankees remain undefeated in Judge’s hometown.

“It’s all good, but disappointment is a powerful motivator,” he asserted. This sentiment is unchanged as he navigates through his 11th season in the majors.

Reflecting on his journey, he mentioned, “It’s been the same since my rookie year, when we lost in the ALCS. A loss, irrespective of when it happens, is still a loss. I just want to get to that point and finish it.” The chants of “MVP” from fans after his fifth-inning home run carry little weight for him.

His sights are already set on October and what he can accomplish in that critical period.

“The regular season feels like spring training at this point. It’s all about getting ready for the real test, smoothing out any issues before we hit the important games,” Judge concluded.