AL Wild Card 2017: 5 reasons Yankees will win

5 of 5

NEW YORK, NY – SEPTEMBER 30: Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees follow through on a fourth inning home run against the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium on September 30, 2017 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

1. Aaron Judge is back in business

It may have been ugly at times in the second half for Yankees rookie phenom Aaron Judge, but the big right fielder was able to end his season on a high note. Judge hit .311/.463/.889 in September with 15 home runs and 32 RBI. Sure, Judge’s overall second-half numbers are ugly, but he has it all coming together at the right time.

Judge ended the year with 52 home runs, setting a new MLB rookie record. He also scored over 100 runs, drove in 114 and drew over 100 walks. There is no opening for debate. This was the best season ever by a rookie hitter. Judge may lose the MVP award to Jose Altuve of the Houston Astros, but not by much.

Against the Twins this year, Judge hit .316/.375/.632 with six doubles, two home runs and six RBI. Judge only struck out five times. Ervin Santana does not have the type of overpowering arsenal and breaking stuff to strike Judge out. One thing is certain, the rookie knows the strike zone, and will be more than happy to take a walk if the Twins give it to him.

Next: 5 reasons Twins will beat Yanks in AL Wild Card Game

We’ll find out more about Judge’s hot streak if the Yankees are able to get past this game and go up against the Cleveland Indians in the ALDS. Judge will have his work cut out for him facing Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco, Danny Salazar and Andrew Miller.

Home/MLB Postseason