The debate of who is the greatest MLB player of all time has been around for generations. Baseball fans, historians, and even players have all weighed in on the discussion and it seems that no two people can agree on a definitive answer. While many of the greatest players in history have been mentioned, there is one that stands head and shoulders above the rest—Babe Ruth.
Early Life and Career
Born in Baltimore in 1895, George Herman Ruth Jr. was the first of eight children. His parents were German immigrants who ran a tavern, and his father was an overbearing disciplinarian. At seven, Ruth was sent to St. Mary’s Industrial School for Boys, a reformatory and orphanage. It’s here that he was taught to play baseball, and the rest was history.
Ruth was quickly signed to the Baltimore Orioles of the International League in 1914 and quickly became one of the best players in the league. After just one season, he was sold to the Boston Red Sox, where he quickly established himself as a power hitter. He had an incredible season in 1918, leading the American League in home runs, RBIs, and batting average.
The Bambino’s Legacy
In 1920, Ruth was sold to the New York Yankees and the rest is history. Over the course of his career, he established himself as one of the greatest hitters of all time. He won seven World Series titles, was a two-time MVP, and a 12-time All-Star. He would become the first player to hit 600 home runs and eventually set the record for most career home runs with 714.
Ruth’s legacy goes beyond just his stats. He was an innovator, changing the game with his power hitting style that would come to define the game. He was also an incredible showman, with his charismatic personality and flair for the dramatic. He was an icon and a beloved figure in the world of baseball, and he remains so to this day.
The Debate
Despite his incredible career, there are some who argue that Ruth isn’t the greatest player of all time. Some argue that Willie Mays was the greatest, with his incredible combination of power and speed. Others argue for Hank Aaron, who broke Ruth’s career home run record. Still others argue for Barry Bonds, who had the greatest single-season home run record.
No matter who you argue for, there is no denying that Babe Ruth is one of the greatest players of all time. His legacy is unrivaled, and his impact on the game is undeniable. He may not be the greatest of all time, but he is certainly the greatest of his era, and that is an accomplishment that will never be forgotten.
Conclusion
When it comes to the question of the greatest MLB player of all time, there is no clear cut answer. Different people will have different opinions, and everyone is entitled to their own opinion. But one thing that cannot be denied is that Babe Ruth is one of the greatest players of all time, and his legacy will live on forever.