The world of baseball is filled with fascinating records and achievements, some of which are so rare that they become the stuff of legends. One such feat is hitting three home runs in a single game. This remarkable accomplishment has been achieved by a select few players in the history of the sport. The question that arises is, “Has Aaron Judge hit 3 homeruns in a game?” Let’s delve into the annals of baseball history to find out.
Historical Highlights of 3-Homer Games
The first recorded instance of a player hitting three home runs in a single game dates back to the American Association era, specifically on August 15, 1886. Interestingly, the player was a pitcher for the Louisville Colonels. The youngest player to achieve this feat in the American League was Al Kaline, who did so on April 17, 1955, at the tender age of 20.119 years. The National League record was set by Eddie Mathews on September 27, 1952, when he was 20.350 years old.
There are also instances of players achieving a 3-homer game early in their careers. Bobby Estalella and Aristides Aquino both accomplished this feat in their tenth career game. Doug DeCinces holds the record for the shortest interval between two 3-homer games, achieving this feat twice within five days in August 1982.
Family Feats and Firsts
Baseball history also records two father-son duos achieving 3-homer games. Ken Griffey Jr. joined his father in this exclusive club on May 24, 1996. The second son to achieve this was Prince Fielder, who hit three home runs on September 27, 2011, joining his father, Cecil Fielder.
Aaron Boone, who hit three home runs in a game on August 9, 2002, and his brother Bret became the first siblings to each have a 3-homer game. Mark McGwire is the only player to have multiple 3-homer games in both leagues.
Unusual Achievements
Seby Zavala, on July 31, 2021, became the first player in Major League Baseball history without a career home run to have a 3-HR game. Nomar Garciaparra holds the unique distinction of being the only player to hit 3-homers on his birthday, which he did on July 23, 2002.
Has Aaron Judge Hit 3 Homeruns in a Game?
The question remains, “Has Aaron Judge hit 3 homeruns in a game?” While Judge is known for his power-hitting prowess, as of the time of writing, he has not yet achieved this particular feat. However, given his talent and potential, it would not be surprising if he joins this exclusive club in the future.
Notable Players Without a 3-Homer Game
Interestingly, some of the game’s best sluggers have not achieved a three-homer game. This list includes big names like Giancarlo Stanton, Mike Trout, and Shohei Ohtani. This goes to show that hitting three home runs in a game is both a rare and unpredictable occurrence.
Conclusion
Hitting three home runs in a single game is a remarkable achievement that few players have managed to accomplish. While Aaron Judge has not yet hit 3 homeruns in a game, his power and skill make him a strong candidate to join this exclusive club in the future. As we continue to watch and enjoy the game of baseball, we look forward to witnessing more such extraordinary feats.