The Silver Slugger Award, given annually by the MLB to the best offensive players at each position in both the American and National Leagues, recognizes excellence at the plate. The 2024 finalists for the prestigious award include four players from the New York Yankees: Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, Giancarlo Stanton, and Gleyber Torres. These four sluggers have had exceptional seasons, showcasing their ability to produce at a high level, and each brings a unique skill set to the table. Let’s break down their 2024 seasons and why they are deserving of this honor.
### Aaron Judge – Right Field (AL)
Aaron Judge has long been one of the most feared hitters in baseball, and his 2024 season only reinforced that reputation. Despite dealing with injuries in the early part of the year, Judge managed to put together another standout campaign. His power and plate discipline remain unmatched, as he finished with a .290 batting average, 40 home runs, and 95 RBIs. Judge’s ability to drive the ball to all fields, combined with his keen eye at the plate (as evidenced by his 110+ walks), made him a significant threat every time he stepped into the batter’s box. He also added to his defensive value, continuing to be a solid presence in right field, even as he battles through physical challenges. Judge’s combination of power, patience, and consistency make him a deserving Silver Slugger finalist.
### Juan Soto – Left Field (NL)
Juan Soto has firmly established himself as one of the premier hitters in Major League Baseball. Playing for the San Diego Padres, Soto’s 2024 season was another example of his unmatched plate discipline and offensive production. Soto finished the season with a .295 batting average, 32 home runs, 95 RBIs, and an OBP of .420, showcasing his ability to get on base while providing significant power numbers. Perhaps his most impressive feat was his 125+ walks, which speaks to his elite eye at the plate and his ability to wear down pitchers. Soto’s approach to hitting is one of the best in baseball, as he consistently works counts, finds pitches he can drive, and maintains a disciplined approach. His elite on-base skills, combined with his power, make him an ideal Silver Slugger finalist.
### Giancarlo Stanton – Designated Hitter (AL)
Giancarlo Stanton has been a destructive force for the Yankees for years, and despite injury setbacks, his 2024 season was another example of his extraordinary raw power. Stanton hit 40+ home runs again, finishing with a batting average in the .250s, but what stood out was his ability to produce in key moments. His power remains his defining attribute, as he continued to crush fastballs and hit towering home runs to all parts of the ballpark. Stanton’s numbers may not be as consistent as some of his peers, but his impact on the game is undeniable. As a designated hitter, Stanton does not have the defensive demands that some of the other finalists face, allowing him to focus purely on his offensive production. His ability to change the game with one swing makes him a worthy finalist for the Silver Slugger.
### Gleyber Torres – Second Base (AL)
Gleyber Torres’ 2024 season was a testament to his development as a complete hitter. Torres finished the season with a .290 batting average, 28 home runs, and 105 RBIs, all while providing consistent offense from the second base position. What stood out was his ability to handle a variety of pitchers, particularly right-handed pitching, and his growth in terms of situational hitting. Torres also showcased his power potential, hitting for both average and power, making him one of the more dynamic second basemen in the league. His combination of power, contact ability, and situational awareness helped solidify his place as a finalist for the Silver Slugger.
### Conclusion
Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, Giancarlo Stanton, and Gleyber Torres are all deserving Silver Slugger finalists for the 2024 season. Each player brings a unique blend of skills to their respective positions, whether it’s Judge’s raw power and plate discipline, Soto’s elite on-base skills and power, Stanton’s game-changing power, or Torres’ dynamic presence at second base. These players have been key contributors to their teams’ offensive success and are some of the best hitters in the game today. The Silver Slugger Award is a fitting recognition of their exceptional offensive performances.
