The Houston Astros have enjoyed years of postseason success, with iconic moments from sluggers like Alex Bregman, George Springer, and Jose Altuve lighting up the October stage. While the Astros’ rivals, the New York Yankees, are struggling to find their footing, one player’s challenges stand out—Aaron Judge. Approaching Game 4 of the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Judge bears a significant share of the responsibility for the Yankees’ probable early exit. Here’s how Judge’s playoff slump fuels Astros fans and why the Yankees are left searching for answers.
Astros Legends Shine Bright in October
From Bregman’s and Springer’s 2017 World Series heroics to Altuve’s clutch home runs in the 2019 and 2023 ALCS, Houston’s stars have consistently stepped up when the stakes are highest. The Astros’ recent October performances have left fans with thrilling memories, proving that Houston Astros sluggers know how to shine when it matters most.
In stark contrast, New York Yankees star Aaron Judge struggles to find his postseason rhythm. Despite being among the most formidable regular-season hitters, Judge’s playoff performance has been underwhelming. In this year’s World Series, the Yankees are down 3-0 to the Dodgers, and Judge’s performance has left much to be desired.
Judge’s October Struggles
So far in the 2024 World Series, Judge has managed only one hit in 12 at-bats. With seven strikeouts and no runs or RBIs to his name, his postseason performance has left Yankees fans questioning his consistency under pressure. While Judge has dominated in regular-season games, each October seems to bring a new set of struggles.
Astros fans are predictably celebrating Judge’s poor performance. His October slump indicates that Houston’s October dominance is unmatched by many. With the Yankees on the brink of elimination, Astros fans enjoy every moment of Judge’s rough postseason.
Pitchers with Better Postseason Plate Performances?
In a surprising twist, two former Houston pitchers have better postseason records at the plate than Judge. Zack Greinke, a six-time All-Star and former Houston hurler hit two World Series singles in 2021 while playing for the Astros. Lance McCullers Jr. drove in a run with a groundout during Game 7 of the 2017 World Series against the Dodgers. These quirky stats remind Astros fans of their team’s postseason success and Judge’s ongoing struggles.
Yankees Fans Call It Sour Grapes
Unsurprisingly, Yankees fans see the Astros’ mockery as bitter rivalry banter. However, as Judge’s October woes continue, ignoring the numbers is hard. As a potential elimination looms, the spotlight focuses on Judge’s performance, and his inability to deliver in high-stakes moments could impact his place in Yankees lore.
What’s Next for Judge and the Yankees?
Suppose the Yankees can’t mount a comeback. In that case, Judge’s 2024 postseason will end without the iconic moments that define the careers of October heroes. For now, all eyes are on Game 4. Yankees fans hope for a miracle, while Astros fans are already celebrating what they view as Judge’s inevitable October exit.