#ThisDayThatYear: Yankees' Babe Ruth smashes his 54th homer in 1920
What's the story
On September 29, 1920, Babe Ruth, the iconic slugger of the New York Yankees, set a remarkable record by hitting 54 home runs in a single MLB season. This feat was unprecedented, surpassing the total home runs of any team in the AL and falling just one short of the Philadelphia Athletics' overall record. We decode this incredible record and his impeccable baseball stats.
Record recap
Ruth makes history in debut season with Yankees
Ruth achieved the milestone in the ninth inning of the Yankees' final game against the Philadelphia Athletics, winning 7-3. This set a seemingly untouchable record and was broken 41 years later by another Yankees slugger Roger Maris with 61 homers. Additionally, Ruth set the single-season home run record four times, including 59 in 1921 and 60 in 1927.
Game recap
A game to remember for all baseball fans
The Yankees ended their season with a 7-3 win and finished the season with a 94-59 record. The A's scored in the first, second, and eighth innings, while the Yankees scored runs in the second, fifth, sixth (three runs), and ninth (two runs). Ruth delivered one hit, one home run, two RBI, and one run in a memorable game.
Career stats
Ruth's career Stats
Ruth's career statistics are legendary. Over 22 seasons, he amassed 2,503 hits, 714 home runs, and 2,214 RBIs, with a career batting average of .342. In postseason play, he recorded 15 home runs and maintained a .326 batting average, and his career record of 714 home runs stood until Hank Aaron broke it in 1974, making him one of the greatest in the sport.
Other achievements
Other numerous achievements
Ruth's accolades extend beyond his home run record. He was a 2-time All-Star and a 7-time World Series champion. His honors include being the AL MVP in 1923, 12-time AL home run leader, and being named to the MLB All-Century and All-Time Teams. Additionally, his No. 3 jersey was retired by the Yankees and he remains a Monument Park honoree.