Soto’s superior plate discipline and ability to work deep counts have produced career-high walk rates per plate appearance, reflected in his .393 OBP and low strikeout totals through roughly 57–71 games. Judge, by contrast, has posted solid walk totals but with markedly higher strikeouts and a power-oriented approach that leads to fewer free passes relative to opportunities. Judge’s early-June placement on the 10-day injured list has further limited his remaining plate appearances, widening the projected gap in cumulative walks. Historical patterns show Soto maintaining elevated walk rates across full seasons regardless of lineup position, while Judge’s occasional absences and swing-first tendencies reinforce trader consensus around Soto finishing ahead.