For nearly two centuries, Major League Baseball (MLB) has been America’s favorite pastime. The stories of the players, their successes and failures, have become part of baseball’s rich history. Every year, players are remembered for their accomplishments, whether it’s a no-hitter, a batting title, or a home run record. One of the most impressive feats in the game is to hit 600 home runs. Since the beginning of the modern era of baseball in the late 19th century, only a select few have accomplished this feat.
History of Home Runs in MLB
Throughout the history of MLB, home runs have been a major part of the game. In 1876, the National League was formed with eight teams, and the first Major League home run was hit by Ross Barnes of the Chicago White Stockings. The home run quickly gained popularity, and in the 1890s the “long ball” became the biggest fan attraction. By the 1930s, home runs had become a major part of the game, and some of the greatest players of all time, such as Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, were hitting a lot of them.
The 600 Home Run Club
As of 2021, there have been only 24 players in the history of MLB who have hit more than 600 home runs. These players, who comprise the 600 Home Run Club, have achieved the highest level of success in the game and are some of the most memorable players in baseball history.
The 600 Home Run Club Members
The 24 members of the 600 Home Run Club are as follows: Barry Bonds (762), Hank Aaron (755), Babe Ruth (714), Alex Rodriguez (696), Albert Pujols (685), Willie Mays (660), Ken Griffey Jr. (630), Jim Thome (612), Sammy Sosa (609), Frank Robinson (586), Manny Ramirez (555), Rafael Palmeiro (569), Mike Schmidt (548), Harmon Killebrew (573), Mark McGwire (583), Reggie Jackson (563), Eddie Murray (504), Dave Winfield (465), Gary Sheffield (509), Andres Galarraga (399), Mickey Mantle (536), Willie McCovey (521), Frank Thomas (521), and Ernie Banks (512).
Notably, Barry Bonds is the all-time leader in home runs, with 762, followed by Hank Aaron with 755. Babe Ruth is third in the list with 714, and Alex Rodriguez is fourth with 696.
Recent Additions to the 600 Home Run Club
In recent years, there have been three new members of the 600 Home Run Club. Albert Pujols became the most recent member in 2019 when he hit his 685th home run. He was followed by Willie Mays, who hit his 660th home run in 2018, and Ken Griffey, Jr. who hit his 630th home run in 2016.
Conclusion
The 600 Home Run Club is an exclusive group of players who have achieved one of the greatest accomplishments in baseball. Since the formation of the National League in 1876, only 24 players have hit more than 600 home runs in their career. These players have achieved a level of success that few can match, and their accomplishments will be remembered for years to come.