Aaron Judge chases Roger Maris' American League record 61 home runs as Yankees face Red Sox

By Alasdair Howorth, CNN

Updated 1353 GMT (2153 HKT) September 23, 2022

Judge is on pace to hit an American League record number of home runs this season.

(CNN)The New York Yankees are hosting their bitter rivals, the Boston Red Sox, in the Bronx for the second game of their four-game home series, but for once, the rivalry takes a back seat as Aaron Judge looks to equal Roger Maris' American League and Yankees single-season record of 61 home runs.

On Thursday, the Yankees beat the Red Sox 5-4 to seal their spot in the 2022 postseason, but that achievement was overshadowed by Judge and his pursuit of greatness.The right-fielder nearly made history in the bottom of the ninth inning. The slugger's connection looked destined to reach the center field netting, but dropped just short into the glove of Kiké Hernández.«Just got underneath it a little bit,» Judge said after the game. «It was a pretty windy night. I was hoping it was blowing out. Just missed it.»Judge missed out on equaling Maris' record in the first game of the Yankees' four-game series against the Red Sox.With the Yankees qualified for the postseason and the Red Sox having nothing to play for in the season other than pride, Judge will take center stage as he pursues an amazing accomplishment.Read MoreThe 30-year-old has already matched Babe Ruth's total from over 90 years ago and could level — or surpass — Maris' 67-year-old record, sealing his spot among the all-time batting greats.«I keep saying over and over, Aaron Judge; everyone should just watch and take notice,» Yankees head coach Aaron Boone said earlier this week after Judge hit his 60th HR. «I can say this because I've lived this and he's shown this: he puts his focus on being a great teammate and