Babe Ruth, born George Herman Ruth on February 6, 1895, in Baltimore, Maryland, grew up in a tough neighborhood. At age seven, he was sent to St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys due to his rebellious nature. There, he discovered his passion for baseball, thanks to Brother Matthias, who saw his potential. Ruth quickly became the star of the school's baseball team.
At 19, Ruth signed with the Baltimore Orioles, a minor league team. His talent caught the attention of the Boston Red Sox, who signed him in 1914. Initially, Ruth was a remarkable left-handed pitcher. In 1916, he led the American League with a 1.75 ERA and helped the Red Sox win two World Series titles by 1918.
However, it was his hitting that made Ruth a legend. In 1919, he set a new record with 29 home runs in a single season. That same year, he was sold to the New York Yankees, a move that changed baseball history.
As a Yankee, Ruth focused on hitting. In 1920, he broke his own record, hitting 54 home runs. His power at the plate was unmatched, and his larger-than-life personality made him a beloved figure.
Ruth's influence on the Yankees was enormous. He led them to their first World Series win in 1923 and hit the first home run in Yankee Stadium, which became known as "The House That Ruth Built." Over 15 seasons with the Yankees, Ruth helped secure four World Series titles and set numerous records, including his famous 60 home runs in a single season in 1927.
Off the field, Ruth was known for his charisma and love of the spotlight. He enjoyed a lavish lifestyle, with extravagant parties and fine food. Despite this, he remained dedicated to baseball and never lost his passion for the game.
Ruth retired in 1935 after a brief time with the Boston Braves. He left with 714 career home runs, a record that stood until 1974. Ruth's impact on baseball was immense. He helped turn it into America's favorite pastime and inspired future generations of players.
In 1936, Ruth was one of the first five players inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, cementing his status as a baseball icon. His legacy continues to influence the sport today.
Babe Ruth, the Sultan of Swat, went from a troubled youth to a legendary figure, showing the power of talent, determination, and the enduring love for baseball.
Here are some key statistics from Babe Ruth's baseball career:
Pitching Stats:
