In an unprecedented and disheartening turn of events, the plaque commemorating Aaron Judge’s historic 62nd home run—the mark that set the American League single-season home run record—has been stolen multiple times from Yankee Stadium. As a result, the New York Yankees have decided that the plaque will no longer be replaced, a move that underscores the bizarre and unfortunate circumstances surrounding this celebrated piece of memorabilia.
The plaque, which was installed to honor Judge’s remarkable achievement during the 2022 season, initially drew significant fanfare and admiration. Judge’s 62 home runs surpassed the previous AL record of 61, set by Roger Maris in 1961. The milestone was not only a personal triumph for Judge but also a significant moment in baseball history, cementing his place among the game’s greats.
However, in a series of disheartening incidents, the plaque has been stolen on multiple occasions, prompting the Yankees to re-evaluate its security and placement. Each theft was followed by a replacement, but despite heightened security measures, the plaque was stolen again, leading to frustration among fans and officials alike.
The repeated thefts have led to the decision by the Yankees to permanently discontinue the replacement of the plaque. While the exact reasons for the thefts remain unclear, the recurring incidents have highlighted a troubling trend that has overshadowed the celebratory nature of Judge’s achievement. The Yankees have expressed their disappointment and concern over the situation, noting that such actions diminish the honor associated with Judge’s record-breaking feat.
As a result, the Yankees are now focusing on alternative ways to celebrate Judge’s accomplishment and ensure that the historic moment is remembered in a more secure manner. The decision not to replace the plaque further emphasizes the need for enhanced security measures in public spaces to protect valuable sports memorabilia.
Despite this setback, the legacy of Aaron Judge’s 62 home runs remains intact. The Yankees and baseball fans continue to celebrate his achievement, and efforts are being made to ensure that the focus remains on the positive aspects of this historic accomplishment. The stolen plaques, while significant, cannot diminish the impact of Judge’s remarkable season and his place in baseball history.