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.
The play left Hernández understandably stunned.
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!”
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.
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.
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.