Is He Worth $90 Million? ESPN Analyst Casts Doubt On Yankees' Slugger

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Post on May 17, 2025

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Is He Worth $90 Million? ESPN Analyst Casts Doubt on Yankees' Slugger Aaron Judge's Contract

New York, NY – Aaron Judge's record-breaking 2022 season culminated in a lucrative nine-year, $360 million contract extension with the New York Yankees. However, the massive deal is already facing scrutiny, with ESPN analyst Jeff Passan recently questioning whether the slugger's performance justifies such a hefty price tag. This raises a critical question for Yankees fans and baseball analysts alike: Is Aaron Judge truly worth $90 million per year?

Passan's comments, aired on ESPN's flagship baseball program, sparked a vigorous debate amongst baseball pundits and fans. While Judge undeniably delivered a historic season in 2022, shattering the American League single-season home run record, his performance in the subsequent seasons will be crucial in determining the true value of his contract.

<h3>Judge's 2022: A Historic Season, But a Single Data Point?</h3>

Judge's 2022 season was nothing short of spectacular. He smashed 62 home runs, setting a new American League record and earning himself the AL MVP award. His performance propelled the Yankees to a strong regular season, although their playoff run fell short of expectations. This incredible season, however, is only one data point. Sustaining this level of performance over the nine-year span of his contract remains a significant challenge, even for a player of Judge's caliber.

<h3>The Risks of Long-Term Contracts in Baseball</h3>

Long-term contracts in baseball are notoriously risky. Injuries, age-related decline, and unforeseen slumps can significantly impact a player's performance, making a large investment less worthwhile. The Yankees' recent history provides examples of both successful and unsuccessful long-term deals, highlighting the inherent uncertainty involved. The team will be closely monitoring Judge's health and performance to ensure their investment pays off.

<h3>Factors Influencing Judge's Value Beyond Home Runs</h3>

While home runs are a key metric in assessing a hitter's value, other factors must be considered. Judge's overall batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage contribute to his overall offensive output. His defensive capabilities in right field, though sometimes criticized, also add value. A comprehensive analysis needs to consider these aspects, rather than focusing solely on his home run totals.

<h3>The Yankees' Perspective: A Bet on Leadership and Brand Value</h3>

The Yankees' decision to sign Judge to such a large contract may also reflect a strategic move beyond pure statistical performance. Judge is a highly marketable player, a fan favorite, and a team leader. His presence boosts ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and the overall brand value of the Yankees. This intangible value should be factored into any evaluation of his contract's worth.

<h3>Looking Ahead: Judge's Performance Will Dictate the Narrative</h3>

Ultimately, the question of whether Aaron Judge is worth $90 million per year will be answered over the next nine seasons. His performance on the field, his ability to stay healthy, and his continued contributions to the Yankees’ overall success will determine whether this contract proves to be a wise investment or a costly mistake. The coming years will be crucial in shaping the narrative surrounding this monumental deal. The pressure is on, not only for Judge, but for the Yankees’ front office as well. The baseball world will be watching.