In 2022, Aaron Judge captivated the baseball world by smashing 62 home runs, setting a new American League single-season record. This feat surpassed Roger Maris's 61 home runs, a record that had stood for over six decades.

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge watches a game from the dugout. (Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Merely nine months later, discussions are already swirling about the possibility of Judge's record being eclipsed. Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Angels' two-way sensation, is currently leading the league with an impressive 35 home runs, putting him on track to potentially hit 60 by the end of the season.

Remarkably, Judge has expressed his support for Ohtani's pursuit of the record. "Records are made to be broken," Judge commented before a recent game against the Angels. "It would be thrilling for baseball if he achieved 63 or more home runs. We'll see what unfolds."

Ohtani had a phenomenal June, hitting 15 home runs and boasting a .394 batting average, all while maintaining a 3.26 ERA as a pitcher.

Los Angeles Angels' Shohei Ohtani connects for a home run. (Michael Owens/Getty Images)

On Monday, Ohtani slammed his 35th home run, contributing to the Angels' comeback victory against the Yankees in the first game of their three-game series.

Judge, who has been sidelined since June 3rd due to a toe injury sustained against the Los Angeles Dodgers, acknowledged Ohtani's physical prowess, saying, "Physically, Shohei has the potential to hit a staggering number of home runs, even 80 or 100. He possesses that level of talent, just like many others in this league. But it's about mental fortitude in those crucial moments."

Shohei Ohtani celebrates after hitting a two-run home run. (Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

The Yankees have struggled in Judge's absence, posting a 15-22 record. They were recently swept by the Angels, extending their losing streak to four games. Manager Aaron Boone admitted the team's struggles, stating, "We're not playing well right now. We recognize that. We have to improve. We're seeing some players make progress and get healthier, but we still have a way to go."