"I don't think this Judge guy has a chance", "No Donaldson or IKF?????" - MLB fans debate Silver Slugger nominations after four New York Yankees stars are selected as finalists for prestigious award

The New York Yankees have several players who have been selected as finalists for the prestigious Silver Slugger Award. Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Anthony Rizzo and DJ LeMahieu were all nominated. After a highly productive offensive season from the Bronx Bombers, it is fitting that their players are getting some recognition.

During the regular season, the Yankees won 99 games to top the American League East. That was due in large part to their outstanding hitting. Led by Judge, the Yankees led MLB in home runs. They led the AL in RBIs and runs. After the season they had, the New York Yankees deserved to have four finalists in the running for the award.

Unfortunately, the organization once again failed to achieve their ultimate goal, a World Series ring. The bats failed to show up in the postseason and the Yankees were swept by the Houston Astros in the ALCS in four games. They scored just nine runs in four games.

MLB fans were quick to point out that aside from Aaron Judge, the Yankees offense did not deliver when it mattered most.

The Silver Slugger Award is given to the best offensive players in each position in both the National and American League.

Aaron Judge should be a shoo-in for one of the outfielder awards. He led the majors in almost every major offensive category. Judge ranked first in home runs, RBIs, runs, OBP, slugging and OPS. He also set a record for the AL single-season home run record with 62, overtaking Roger Maris. It's safe to assume his award is secure.

Four New York Yankees players were selected as finalists for the 2022 Silver Slugger Award

Aaron Judge and DJ LeMahieu of the New York Yankees celebrate after a win at Yankee Stadium.

The remainder of the Yankees finalists were inconsistent and unpredictable during the 2022 season. DJ LeMahieu started the season strong but injuries hampered his progress. Stanton hit 31 total home runs, but his batting average (.211) was poor throughout the season. Injuries also limited his game time and his overall statistics.

Anthony Rizzo may have a chance in the first base category but will face stiff competition from Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Rizzo had a .224/.338/.480 slash line with a .818 OPS. He also contributed with 32 home runs and 75 RBIs.

Yankees fans can be optimistic about the future. If Aaron Judge signs a long-term deal in the offseason, all four of these players should return for the 2023 season. It will provide a solid foundation for the organization to build on.

The New York Yankees have now gone 13 seasons without a World Series ring. Fans are frustrated. Individual accolades are all good and well, but they mean very little when it comes to the big picture. The Yankees will hope that next year they can break their championship drought.