Aaron Judge Reaches 500 Extra-Base Hits as Yankees Set Early Home Run Record

Facing the Arizona Diamondbacks and needing a win to avoid a sweep at home, the New York Yankees unleashed their offense early and often. Aaron Judge set the tone immediately with a three-run homer in the first inning, marking his 500th career extra-base hit. This achievement places him third on the Yankees' all-time list for speed to this milestone, behind only Joe DiMaggio and Lou Gehrig – esteemed company highlighting Judge's consistent impact.

Manager Aaron Boone acknowledged almost taking Judge's elite performance for granted, noting his captain “keeps setting the bar so darned high.” Judge himself, however, remains focused on team goals, stating he'll reflect on personal milestones later, emphasizing “there’s a lot of work to be done.” Teammate Jazz Chisholm Jr. added praise, calling Judge “one of the best players ever to play the game.”

The Yankees' power wasn't limited to Judge. Trent Grisham and Chisholm Jr. also homered, contributing to the team's MLB record of 22 home runs through the first six games. This offensive explosion provided crucial run support for starting pitcher Carlos Carrasco, who earned his first win as a Yankee, allowing three runs over 5 1/3 innings. Despite a late grand slam by Arizona's Geraldo Perdomo tightening the score, the Yankees' bullpen, anchored by Mark Leiter Jr. and Luke Weaver (who earned a four-out save), secured the 9-7 victory. Judge mentioned Giancarlo Stanton emphasized protecting their home turf before the game, helping the team focus amid potential distractions.

Who reached 500 extra-base hits faster than Aaron Judge for the Yankees?

Only Joe DiMaggio (in 853 games) and Lou Gehrig (in 874 games) reached the 500 extra-base hit milestone in fewer games for the New York Yankees than Aaron Judge (999 games).

What MLB record did the Yankees set early in the season?

The Yankees set a new Major League Baseball record by hitting 22 home runs through their first six games of the season.

The Yankees' power display is undeniable, but can they maintain this historic home run pace throughout the season? Do you think this trend will last? Let us know!

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