Babe Ruth, the name synonymous with baseball greatness, remains one of the most iconic figures in sports history. Known as the “Sultan of Swat,” Ruth revolutionized the game in the 1920s with his extraordinary power-hitting and larger-than-life personality, setting records that stood for decades and reshaping how the sport was played and perceived.
Ruth joined the New York Yankees in 1920 after a historic transfer from the Boston Red Sox. The transaction, involving $100,000—a record sum at the time—was controversial but proved transformational. Ruth’s impact was immediate and profound. In the 1927 season, he achieved an unprecedented feat by hitting 60 home runs, shattering his previous record and setting a new standard for power-hitters. This incredible accomplishment solidified Ruth’s status as a baseball legend and marked the Yankees as a dominant force in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Beyond his records, Ruth’s presence in the game changed its dynamics. His ability to hit home runs at a previously unseen frequency drew crowds in unprecedented numbers, boosting the popularity of baseball during the Roaring Twenties. The Yankees’ move to build the original Yankee Stadium in 1923 was largely credited to Ruth’s drawing power, earning the ballpark its nickname, “The House That Ruth Built.”
Ruth’s influence extended beyond the field. He became a cultural icon, embodying the American Dream and the spirit of the era. His charitable acts, visits to hospitals, and interactions with fans further endeared him to the public.
While Ruth retired in 1935, his legacy endures. His career totals of 714 home runs and a .690 slugging percentage remain benchmarks of excellence. Ruth’s contributions to baseball forever changed how the game is played, elevating it into America’s pastime.
Over a century later, Babe Ruth’s name continues to evoke awe and inspiration, a testament to his unparalleled impact on the sport and American culture.