Aaron Judge's Journey to Peak Performance

Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees' towering slugger, has transformed his career by focusing on one crucial aspect: staying healthy. After a series of injuries early in his career, Judge has made significant changes to his lifestyle and training regimen, ensuring he remains on the field and continues to dominate Major League Baseball (MLB).

The Impact of Health on Performance

From 2018 through the COVID-shortened 2020 season, Judge appeared in just 63% of the Yankees' games due to various injuries. However, since the start of the 2021 season, he has been present in 89% of the games, a testament to his improved health and durability. This consistency has allowed Judge to refine his swing and maintain his rhythm, leading to extraordinary performance levels.

Key Changes and Adjustments

Judge's commitment to health includes avoiding sweets, hiring a year-round chef, and incorporating explosive exercises like jumping into his workouts. These changes have not only kept him fit but also enhanced his explosiveness and speed, crucial for his role as an every-day outfielder.

Historical Performance and Future Prospects

Judge's recent performance is nothing short of historic. Since April 27 of last year, he leads the majors with a 244 wRC+ and 15.8 fWAR, hitting .365 with 72 home runs and 178 RBIs in 186 games. His ability to stay healthy and produce at such a high level has made him a favorite for his third AL MVP Award in four seasons.

The Yankees' Reliance on Judge

The Yankees' success is heavily dependent on Judge's presence. His ability to play consistently has been a game-changer for the team, which struggled in his absence during the 2023 season. Judge's dedication to staying healthy ensures he remains a cornerstone of the Yankees' lineup, providing reliability and leadership.

Conclusion

Aaron Judge's focus on health has redefined his career, making him one of the most dominant players in MLB. His journey from injury-prone to a consistent powerhouse is a testament to his dedication and hard work. As he continues to break records and lead the Yankees, Judge's legacy as one of the game's greats is firmly cemented.