The baseball world has been buzzing with concern over the struggles of New York Yankees' star Aaron Judge during the beginning of the 2024 season. With just 21 games played, Judge's performance has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about what could be going wrong for the 2022 AL MVP.

One theory circulating among fans and analysts is that Judge's slump is simply a result of the normal ebbs and flows of the season. In the past, Judge has experienced similar stretches where his numbers dipped, only to bounce back and dominate later on. This perspective proposes that it's too early to panic and that Judge will eventually find his rhythm at the plate.

However, closer examination reveals some potential factors that may be impacting Judge's performance. During spring training, Judge suffered a minor abdominal injury, which limited his playing time and disrupted his preparation for the season. This lack of consistent at-bats could be contributing to his struggles with timing and making solid contact with the ball.

Furthermore, Judge's pop-up rate has skyrocketed this season, leading to automatic outs. This could be indicative of his ongoing quest to regain his timing and find his groove. Despite these challenges, Judge's plate discipline metrics are still in line with previous seasons, suggesting that he hasn't lost his ability to make sound decisions at the plate.

Another theory suggests that Judge's ongoing physical ailments are playing a role in his subpar performance. Although Judge claims to be healthy, his grimacing after swings and runs is hard to ignore. The lingering toe injury from last season, which requires constant maintenance, along with the abdominal issue, may be taking a toll on his overall physical condition.

As Judge approaches his 32nd birthday, questions about his decline have also surfaced. Standing at an imposing 6-foot-7 and 282 pounds, Judge's size makes him a unique case in baseball history when it comes to aging. While his exit velocity still remains impressive, it has dipped from his otherworldly levels of the past.

It's important to note that Judge's struggles should be analyzed in the context of it still being early in the season. Despite the concerns, Judge himself remains optimistic, acknowledging that he needs to capitalize on the few pitches he gets in the strike zone.

Only time will tell whether Judge's early-season woes will subside and allow him to regain his MVP form. With a long season ahead, the Yankees and their fans will continue to support and monitor their captain, hoping that he can overcome these challenges and return to being the force he has proven to be in the past.