Roger Maris

Roger Maris was a prominent American baseball player, remembered for his powerful hitting and significant impact on the game during the late 1950s and 1960s. Born in 1934, Maris played as a position player from 1957 until his retirement in 1968. Over the course of his career, he participated in 1,463 games, accumulating 1,325 hits and an impressive total of 275 home runs. His ability to drive in runs was reflected in his 851 RBIs, and he maintained a batting average of .260. Maris also showcased his speed on the bases, finishing his career with 21 stolen bases. Maris was a seven-time All-Star and is perhaps best known for breaking Babe Ruth's single-season home run record in 1961, a feat that captivated the nation and forever etched his name in baseball lore. This achievement came during a period of intense scrutiny and media attention, as the race for home runs became a focal point of American sports culture. His legacy was further solidified when he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009, recognizing his contributions to the game and the challenges he faced as a player. Roger Maris's career remains a significant chapter in baseball history, representing both the triumphs and pressures of a player in the spotlight.