When talking about Atlanta Braves history, you will always hear about Hank Aaron, one of Atlanta’s most revered players. He played 21 seasons for the Braves, and is number 5 on the “100 Greatest Baseball Players” Sporting News list. Aaron held and still holds many Major League Baseball records, but his home run record is likely the most recognized.
Breaking Babe Ruth’s Record
On April 8th in 1974, Hank Aaron, at age 39, would hit a home run against pitcher Al Downing of the Los Angeles Dodgers. This would be the 715th home run of his career. The previous record of 714 was held by baseball legend Babe Ruth for 39 years. Hank Aaron made history that day, and celebrated with his teammates waiting at home plate for him:
755 Home Runs
Hank Aaron would go on to hit 40 more home runs, ending his career with 755 total. That record would stand for 33 more years, until Barry Bonds broke it in 2007. Bonds finished his career with 762 runs, and still holds the record to this day. Hank Aaron ranks at number two for career home runs, and Babe Ruth still stands at number three.
Aaron would go on to set many more records in Major League Baseball. He still hold the record for most All-Star selections and seasons as an All-Star. He is the only player to hit 24 or more home runs in at least 15 seasons. He still holds MLB records for runs batted in, extra base hits, and total bases.
A Living Legend
Hank Aaron is still admired and esteemed in Atlanta. His number, 44, was retired by the Atlanta Braves in 1977 and Aaron was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982. One of the streets running past Turner Field was renamed Hank Aaron Drive, and the stadium’s street number is 755. Turner Field even dedicated their club to him, aptly naming it the 755 Club. He has served as senior vice president for the Atlanta Braves since 1980.
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[…] Aaron weekend at Truist Park is almost here! Hank Aaron was a legend with the Atlanta Braves. His 755 career home runs broke the MLB record set by Babe Ruth. The record stood for 33 years, and Aaron went on to break […]