August 11, 1929
Babe Ruth becomes the first baseball player to hit 500 home runs in his career.
Cleveland, United States | Major League Baseball
On August 11, 1929, George Herman “Babe” Ruth, one of the most iconic figures in baseball history, became the first player to hit 500 home runs in his career. This milestone was achieved during a game between the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Indians at League Park in Cleveland, Ohio.
Babe Ruth’s Career: Before reaching this milestone, Babe Ruth had already established himself as a formidable power hitter. He began his Major League Baseball career with the Boston Red Sox as a pitcher in 1914 but gained fame as an outfielder with the New York Yankees, where he revolutionized the game with his home run-hitting prowess.
The “Live-Ball” Era: Ruth’s career coincided with the beginning of the “live-ball” era in baseball, which started around 1920. This period saw an increase in offensive play, partly due to changes in the baseball itself and a shift in playing style, with Ruth leading the charge in prioritizing power hitting.
The Game: On August 11, 1929, the Yankees faced the Indians in a regular-season game. Ruth’s 500th home run came off a pitch from Willis Hudlin, a right-handed pitcher for the Indians.
The Hit: Ruth’s home run was a solo shot that cleared the right-field fence. It was a testament to his extraordinary power and ability to change the course of a game with a single swing.
Historical Impact: Ruth’s achievement was a significant milestone in baseball history, setting a benchmark for future generations of power hitters. It underscored his dominance in the sport and his role in popularizing baseball as America’s pastime.
Legacy: Babe Ruth finished his career with 714 home runs, a record that stood until 1974 when Hank Aaron surpassed it. Ruth’s influence on the game extended beyond his statistics; he became a cultural icon, symbolizing the spirit of the Roaring Twenties and the burgeoning popularity of professional sports.
Cultural Influence: Ruth’s larger-than-life persona and his achievements on the field contributed to the growing media coverage of sports and the celebrity status of athletes, paving the way for future sports superstars.
Babe Ruth’s 500th home run remains a celebrated moment in the annals of baseball history, marking a key point in the evolution of the game and the enduring legacy of one of its greatest players.
Source: en.wikipedia.org