October 5, 2001
Barry Bonds broke the single-season home run record in Major League Baseball by hitting his 71st and 72nd home runs.
San Francisco, United States | Major League Baseball
On October 5, 2001, Barry Bonds of the San Francisco Giants made history by breaking the Major League Baseball single-season home run record during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Pacific Bell Park in San Francisco. Bonds hit his 71st and 72nd home runs, surpassing the previous record of 70, set by Mark McGwire in 1998.
Barry Bonds entered the 2001 season already regarded as one of baseball’s most prolific power hitters. By the start of October, he was on the verge of breaking a record set only three years earlier. Bonds’ pursuit of the home run record was a major story throughout the season, drawing attention to each of his at-bats as he closed in on and ultimately surpassed McGwire’s mark.
On the evening of October 5, Bonds faced Chan Ho Park of the Dodgers. During Bonds’ first at-bat in the first inning, he struck early, sending a pitch deep into right-center field for his 71st home run, breaking the tie with McGwire. The historic home run brought the crowd to its feet as they witnessed a new standard in baseball’s storied history.
Later in the game, Bonds continued to showcase his prodigious talent by hitting another home run, solidifying his record with his 72nd homer of the season. This performance was instrumental in leading the Giants to the postseason, as they battled for a playoff spot in the competitive National League West division.
Barry Bonds’ achievement on October 5, 2001, was not only a personal milestone but also a significant event in baseball history. His final season tally reached 73 home runs, setting a record that remains unbroken as of 2023. Bonds’ performance that year further cemented his legacy as one of baseball’s greatest hitters, although his accomplishment has been subject to controversy due to subsequent allegations regarding performance-enhancing drug use.
Despite the controversies, the impact of Bonds’ record-breaking season is undeniable, as it highlighted the high offensive prowess prevalent in the era and contributed to broader discussions about the integrity of the sport. The events of October 5, 2001, remain a defining moment in Major League Baseball.
Source: www.baseball-almanac.com