MLB World Reacts To The Passing Of Hall of Famer Hank Aaron
ATLANTA, GA - OCTOBER 02: Hall of Famer Hank Aaron throws out the ceremonial last pitch at Turner Field after the game between the Atlanta Braves and the Detroit Tigers at Turner Field on October 2, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/Getty Images)
The world of Major League Baseball was rocked on Friday morning by the death of the legendary, Hall of Fame slugger Henry "Hank" Aaron. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 86.
Aaron made immeasurable contributions to the game of baseball during his illustrious career. On the field, he made 25 All Star teams, winning the 1957 MVP award as a member of the Milwaukee Braves. The game acknowledged his impressive accomplishments by voting him into the Hall of Fame in his first time on the ballot in 1982.
Aaron became known for his power at the plate, setting a new standard for sluggers around the world. Over an incredible stretch from 1957 to 1973, he hit 30 home runs or more in 15 of 17 seasons. During that era, he led MLB in RBI on four separate occasions and hit over .300 nearly every year. He raked a career 755 home runs, breaking the original record held by Babe Ruth in 1973. He still holds the record for most career RBI with 2,297.
Apart from his successes on the field, Aaron towered above everyone off of the diamond for his courage. The legendary slugger came into the league less than a decade after Jackie Robinson made history by becoming the first African-American player to play in major league baseball. Aaron still faced immeasurable odds throughout his career in a sport that did not fully accept him because of the color of his skin. During his record-breaking 1973 season, Aaron dealt with death threats and disgusting insults, but still accomplished what seemed impossible, shattering Ruth's home run record. In the latter stages of his life, he remained outspoken about social justice and continued to use his platform in meaningful ways.
Needless to say, the sports world was devastated to hear of the the legend's passing. Many took to social media to grieve for Aaron or to thank him for his contributions to the world, both on and off the field.
Aaron's memory will continue to live on in baseball for who he was on the diamond, but also who he was when away from the game. He clearly impacted hundreds of thousands of people around the world, which may be the best example of the legacy he will leave behind.
We send our sincerest condolences to Hank Aaron's family and loved ones.
