Major League Baseball star Aaron Judge ran through a wall to make a stunning catch as the New York Yankees defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers.
On Saturday, the 35-25 Yankees secured a 6-3 win over the Dodgers - who possess a 35-24 record - at Dodger Stadium in sunny LA. Judge, the reigning American League MVP, is the captain of the Yankees and undoubtedly one of the best hitters in the world.
However, Judge showcased his impressive fielding ability against the Dodgers. The 31-year-old is an elite right fielder and proved himself once more upon his return to his home state of California.
J.D. Martinez stepped up to the plate looking to hut the tying run for the Dodgers, and the outfielder slammed a fly ball to right field. Judge had to put in plenty of effort to make the play as he sprinted to his left, extending his body to make the grab before slamming into - and through - the wall.
Given Judge’s enormous 6’7” frame, the Yankees ace quite literally broke the bullpen door open. After New York secured the win, Judge told FOX Sports: “They gotta make a stronger fence out there, I guess.”
The Yankees sent trainers out to check on Judge after the remarkable door-busting play, but Judge was OK to continue. While he proved he was not just a home run hitter with the play, Judge crushed a AL-leading 19th homer of the season earlier in the win over the Dodgers.
He is now just one home run behind New York Mets star Pete Alonso for the MLB lead despite missing 11 games with injury. Judge has been a phenom over the last few years, culminating in a sensational 2022 season whereby the Yankee was five points away from winning the Triple Crown for leading the league in Batting Average, Home Runs and Runs Batted In.
Judge was named MVP as he set a new AL record of 62 home runs, moving clear of fellow Yankee Roger Maris’ total of 61 back in 1961. Last season, Judge led MLB in homers, RBI (131), on-base percentage (.425), slugging percentage (.666), total bases (391), and runs scored (133) while his 111 walks led the AL.
Following his epic season, Judge signed a record-breaking nine-year deal worth $360million and was named the first captain of the Yankees since franchise icon Derek Jeter. He played a pivotal role in the win over the Dodgers as New York tied the three-game series.
Judge and the Yankees face the Dodgers in their next contest on Sunday night.
