George Herman "Babe" Ruth Jr., born on February 6, 1895, in Baltimore, Maryland, is widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Known by nicknames such as "the Bambino" and "the Sultan of Swat," Ruth's career spanned 22 seasons from 1914 to 1935.
Ruth began his Major League Baseball (MLB) career as a left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. He quickly gained a reputation for his exceptional pitching skills, winning 23 games in a season twice and helping the Red Sox to three World Series championships. However, Ruth's true legacy was built as a slugging outfielder for the New York Yankees, where he played from 1920 to 1934.
In 1920, Ruth embarked on a home-run hitting campaign that transformed baseball and established records that stood for nearly four decades. His powerful swing and charismatic personality made him a national icon, drawing large crowds to the ballpark and boosting the sport's popularity. Ruth's home run totals continued to rise, and he became the first player to hit 30, 40, and 50 home runs in a season.
Ruth impact on baseball extended beyond his on-field achievements. He played a significant role in popularizing the home run and ushering in the live-ball era, which shifted the game from a low-scoring, strategy-focused sport to one where power hitting became a major factor. His success with the Yankees led to seven American League pennants and four World Series championships.
Off the field, Ruth was known for his larger-than-life personality and his rags-to-riches life story. Despite his success, he faced personal challenges, including struggles with alcohol and health issues. Ruth passed away on August 16, 1948, at the age of 53, but his legacy continues to live on.
In 1936, Ruth was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame as one of its first five inaugural members. His contributions to the sport and his enduring popularity have made him an enduring symbol of American sports culture.