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Babe Ruth Day: Interesting facts and top 5 batting performances

Throughout his exceptional career, Babe Ruth managed to achieve a remarkable 136 triples, a feat that remains impressive even today

Baseball enthusiasts worldwide commemorate Babe Ruth Day on April 27 to pay homage to one of the most outstanding players of all time. Despite his troubled youth that resulted in his placement in a Catholic reformatory and orphanage at seven, Ruth's extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication led him to establish numerous records and receive countless accolades, earning him the monikers 'The Colossus of Clout' and 'The Sultan of Swat'. Ruth's unprecedented achievements and celebrity status continue to motivate young players today, cementing his legendary status in American baseball history.

Renowned as 'The Bambino' and several other nicknames, Babe Ruth was a baseball icon known for his remarkable talent and charismatic personality. He was famous for predicting some of his home runs before even hitting them, showcasing his sheer confidence and skill. Ruth also boasted an exceptional pitching record, achieving a remarkable 1.75 ERA for a season where he pitched over 320 innings. Ruth's electrifying presence on the field continues to make him a revered legend in the history of the MLB, leaving a lasting impact on the sport and inspiring future generations of baseball players.

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History of Babe Ruth Day

In 1946, the inaugural celebration of Babe Ruth Day took place under the supervision of Albert B Chandler, an esteemed American politician and Baseball Commissioner from 1945 to 1951. Unfortunately, later that year, Ruth received the devastating news that he had throat cancer after experiencing eye irritation and difficulty swallowing. The following year, on April 27, the day was officially proclaimed Babe Ruth Day. Ruth's treatment, which lacked the advancements of modern medical treatments, caused his health to deteriorate, leaving him frail. During Chandler's hospital visit, both were deeply saddened by the player's failing health, underscoring the profound impact that Ruth had made on the sport and its enthusiasts.

Interesting facts about Babe Ruth you should know

1. During games in Chicago, Ruth used to indulge in a beer and a hot dog from McCuddy's, even while he was playing, if he wasn't scheduled to bat during the Yankees' half innings.

2. Throughout his exceptional career, Ruth managed to achieve a remarkable 136 triples, a feat that remains impressive even today.

3. Ruth also had several remarkable achievements worth noting as a pitcher. He had a perfect 3-0 record with a minuscule ERA of 0.87 in the World Series, pitched 13 scoreless innings in a 1916 World Series game, and accumulated a total of 29.2 scoreless innings, a record that was not broken until 1961 when Whitey Ford surpassed it.

4. To keep himself cool during games, Ruth employed a unique tactic by wearing a piece of cabbage under his hat. This unusual technique helped him to stay comfortable in the heat, especially during the scorching summer months.

Babe Ruth's Top 5 batting performances

1. May 25, 1935

This is considered Babe Ruth's most memorable performance ever. This was late in his career when he played for the Boston Braves and not the Yankees. His career was ending, and he would not play past June of that season. Nonetheless, in his final days, Ruth made sure to make this game against the Pittsburgh Pirates count. On this day, he went four-for-four with one single, six RBIs, and three home runs. This remarkable performance by the Sultan of Swat on May 25, 1935, is one of the top 5 Babe Ruth batting performances ever.

2. July 9, 1927

On July 9, 1927, Babe Ruth delivered an outstanding performance, leading the New York Yankees to a crushing 19-7 victory against the Detroit Tigers. He hit two home runs, two doubles, and a single, setting a record that has since been equaled but never surpassed.

3. April 20, 1926

Ruth showcased his batting skills early in the season, on April 20, 1926, in his sixth game. He had an outstanding performance, going five-for-six, with six RBIs, including a home run and two singles, and two doubles.

4. September 10, 1921

Ruth demonstrated his versatility as a hitter during the Yankees' triumph against the Philadelphia Athletics on September 10, 1921. Although he did not hit any home runs, he was only a home run away from hitting the cycle. Ruth hit a single, a double, and a triple, showcasing his excellent hitting abilities.

5. May 11, 1920

One of Ruth's earliest memorable performances in Yankee Stadium came on May 11, 1920, in a 6-5 win over the Chicago White Sox. He proved his worth as a power hitter, going three-for-three with a walk, a triple, two home runs, and four RBIs. This game showcased his exceptional skills and helped establish him as a fan favorite who could take control of a game and lead the Yankees to victory.