In a historic season filled with jaw-dropping performances, Shohei Ohtani is now eyeing a remarkable feat that could shake the baseball world yet again.
Just one year after Aaron Judge broke Roger Maris’ American League season home run record of 61, Ohtani has emerged as a potential record-breaker with his impressive power display.
“Records are meant to be broken,” Judge recently commented. “It would be exciting for the game if he went out there and got 63-plus. So, we’ll see what happens.”
Ohtani, known for his exceptional two-way talents has 35 homers in just 94 games. On pace to hit 60, Ohtani is well within striking distance of Judge’s record of 62 home runs set last year, just one more than Maris’ historic tally in 1961.
The Angels star outfielder and pitcher made waves in June, setting a franchise record with 15 home runs, and he continued his power surge by hitting three home runs in the first five games following the All-Star break.
Judge acknowledged that Ohtani’s biggest challenge lies in the mental aspect of the game rather than just the physical prowess.
“He can hit 100 home runs, 80 home runs. He’s got that type of talent, just like so many other guys in this league,” Judge praised. “But it’s moments like that, it’s about just mentally being able to block out the noise or lack of noise in those moments.”
When it comes to comparing swings, Judge highlighted one key difference: his leg lift. Despite the variation, Judge was quick to note the similarities in their positions during their swings, acknowledging Ohtani’s impressive form.
“I think if you look around the league and all the good hitters, you know, some toe tap, some leg lifts, some don’t stride at all, but I think you can kind of cut each swing at a specific moment, we all kind of get in the same position. That’s why I like getting the chance to watch him,” Judge remarked.
Last year, Judge and Ohtani showcased their power during a memorable three-game series in Anaheim, with each player hitting two home runs. Unfortunately, Judge has been on the sidelines since June 3 due to a ligament tear in his right big toe.
While the Yankees slugger remains out of action, he maintains a .291 batting average with 19 homers and 40 RBI in 49 games this season.
Manager Aaron Boone expressed optimism about Judge’s steady progress, but he also emphasized that there is no specific timetable for his return.
“The fact that he’s able to run the bases and do these different things is important. As long as he can continue to progress like he has with a low pain sensitivity to it, he should be in a good spot,” Boone commented.
Do you think Ohtani will break Judge’s record this season?