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A short thread on memories about Hank Aaron. He finished the 1973 season with 713 home runs. As we went into Sprint, my dad really wanted to see both 714 and 715. (He played semi-pro ball before I was born, and was a huge baseball fan). From opening day on, we watched (1/n)
The Braves were on national TV early that year. Hank was at 713. He tied Ruth in first away stand in Cincinnati. Then, the Braves came home to Atlanta against the Dodgers. First game of the series, Aaron went 0 - 3. I was bummed. Dad had said we were going to see a record (2/n)
I loved playing baseball as a kid, but I wasn’t as obsessed as Dad was. I wanted to see 715, but I didn’t want to watch every game. We watched again. IT HAPPENED!! The most important record in baseball was broken. My brother, dad and I jumped up and down in our living room. (3/n)
I was 11, and a bit naive. Dad stopped celebrating as Aaron jogged toward 3rd. Two people had run onto the field and were surrounding him. We were all celebrating, but suddenly, he stopped. Thankfully, it was fans also celebrating. I only learned later of all the threats (4/n)
I still think Hank Aaron is the best all around baseball player I ever say play. Not only was he a great power hitter, he was a solid outfielder, and fast enough on the base paths. Just all around talented. (5/n)
And, a good human with a sense of humor. I also remember shortly after he retired, Dad and I watched an interview on the Today show, where Joe Garigiola interviewed Hank Aaron. Joe started the interview by saying “We are making history in our studio today.” (6/n)
“The men sitting in this room have combined for over 800 major league home runs. That’s never happened before.” (Garigiola as the catcher for the Dodgers and had 42 career home runs.) Dad laughed. I laughed because he laughed. Hank Aaron laughed heartily. (7/n)
Thank you Hank Aaron. A great player, a great example. Rest in peace, rest in power. You’ve earned it. I’m grateful for the memories. (8/8)
