The MLB home run record has long been one of the most iconic marks in American sports. Home runs are the ultimate display of power in baseball, and the pursuit of record-breaking seasons has captivated fans for generations. From Babe Ruth to Aaron Judge, the race to be baseball’s greatest slugger is filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments.
The Single-Season MLB Home Run Record
The single-season home run record stands as one of the most celebrated achievements in the game. Here’s how the milestone has evolved:
- Babe Ruth (1927) – 60 HRs Ruth’s record of 60 home runs in 1927 stood as the gold standard for decades. It symbolized the dawn of the power era in baseball.
- Roger Maris (1961) – 61 HRs Maris broke Ruth’s mark in 1961, hitting 61 home runs for the New York Yankees. Though controversial at the time due to the longer schedule (162 games vs. 154 in Ruth’s era), Maris’ record held for 37 years.
- Mark McGwire (1998) – 70 HRs McGwire shattered Maris’ record during the memorable 1998 season, edging out Sammy Sosa in one of baseball’s most electrifying home run races.
- Barry Bonds (2001) – 73 HRs Bonds set the current record with 73 home runs in 2001. While his achievement is clouded by links to performance-enhancing drugs, it remains the official MLB record.
- Aaron Judge (2022) – 62 HRs (American League record) Judge broke Maris’ long-standing AL record in 2022 with 62 home runs for the Yankees, solidifying his place among the great sluggers.
The Career MLB Home Run Record
- Hank Aaron – 755 HRs For decades, “Hammerin’ Hank” held the all-time career home run record. His consistency and longevity made him a legend.
- Barry Bonds – 762 HRs Bonds surpassed Aaron in 2007, finishing with 762 career home runs, the current MLB record. Like his single-season mark, Bonds’ career record is often debated due to the steroid era.
- Albert Pujols – 703 HRs In 2022, Pujols joined the elite 700-home run club, finishing his career fourth on the all-time list.
Most Home Runs by a Rookie
- Aaron Judge – 52 HRs (2017) Judge set the rookie record in 2017, surpassing Mark McGwire’s 49 from 1987. His combination of power and discipline made him an instant superstar.
The Legacy of the Home Run Record
The MLB home run record is more than just numbers—it represents eras of baseball history:
- Ruth and Maris defined the post-war and early modern power eras.
- McGwire, Sosa, and Bonds highlighted the controversial steroid era.
- Judge brought back credibility and fanfare to the chase in the 21st century.
Whether you view the official records or “clean” milestones, the home run record continues to spark debate and excitement, proving why baseball remains America’s pastime.
