Who are the Yankees with 500+ home runs?

Back on August 4, 2007, a significant moment unfolded in MLB history as Alex Rodriguez, the Yankees’ third baseman, became the youngest player to join the club of men with 500 career home runs. After an eight-game wait, Rodriguez wasted no time, driving the very first pitch he saw from Kansas City pitcher Kyle Davies deep into left field to secure his milestone homer.

The Yankees star joined an exclusive club of baseball legends as the 22nd player to accomplish the remarkable feat of hitting 500 home runs. His achievement is even more impressive as he reached this milestone at the age of 32 years and 8 days, making him the youngest player in history to do so. The previous record holder was Jimmie Foxx, who achieved this milestone at 32 years and 338 days of age.

As of now, a total of 28 MLB players have managed to hit 500 or more home runs throughout their careers. Among these distinguished players, five have had the honor of donning the pinstripes for the Yankees.

#1. Babe Ruth, 714 HRs

George Herman “Babe” Ruth, the original slugger of baseball, made his mark on the sport before the era of television, earning a legendary status within the baseball community. Often regarded as a mythical figure, “The Bambino” is considered by many to be the greatest player in the history of the sport. His astounding record of 714 home runs is just one aspect of his incredible legacy. Additionally, the Yankees’ biggest legend holds the all-time MLB records for On-Base Plus Slugging (1.164) and Wins Above Replacement (163.1), further solidifying his unparalleled greatness.

Babe Ruth, a founding member of the MLB 500 home run club, is renowned for his numerous nicknames, almost as many as the home runs he hit. The Sultan of Swat, the Behemoth of Bust, the Big Bam, and the Great Bambino are just a few of the names associated with him. His career commenced in 1914, and he was the first player to display exceptional power hitting, setting a remarkable record of 714 home runs that remained unbroken from 1935 until 1974 when it was surpassed by the second player on our list. The impact of Babe Ruth on the New York Yankees cannot be overstated, as his presence brought excitement and championships to the Big Apple, ultimately shaping the team into the powerhouse they are today.

According to MLB Stats’ Twitter account, almost a century ago, Babe Ruth had a season that remains highly esteemed as one of the finest in baseball history. In the year 1923, Babe Ruth achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the sole American League player to accomplish a season with both 40+ home runs and an on-base percentage (OBP) of .540 or higher.

#2. Alex Rodriguez, 696 HRs

Alex Rodriguez, despite being a contentious figure, stood as one of the most prolific and divisive power hitters of his time. While he surpassed Willie Mays on the all-time home run list, the Yankees star’s career is tarnished in the eyes of many baseball fans due to his acknowledgment of using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Alex Rodriguez, a 14-time All-Star who showcased his talent on both coasts during his career, amassed an impressive 696 home runs, positioning him as the fourth-leading home run hitter of all time. While he is predominantly associated with the New York Yankees, Rodriguez also left a significant mark during his tremendous years with the Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners. Had it not been for his suspension in 2014, he might have climbed higher on the home run list, but instead, he settles with the notable record of 696 home runs and retains his status as one of the world’s most renowned athletes today.

#3. Reggie Jackson, 563 HRs

Reggie Jackson is most celebrated for his iconic three-home run performance for the Yankees during the 1977 World Series, earning him the reputation as the most clutch power hitter in baseball’s history. Recognized as “Mr. October,” he played a pivotal role in five World Series-winning teams during the 1970s and achieved the honor of being a 14-time All-Star. In 1993, he received induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. With an impressive career, the Yankees’ Mr. October concluded with an impressive tally of 563 home runs.

#4. Mickey Mantle, 536 HRs

Mickey Mantle, arguably the most exceptional center fielder in the annals of baseball, continues to hold a cherished place in the hearts of Yankees fans, just as he did throughout his illustrious playing days. Fondly known as “The Mick,” he earned an impressive record of accomplishments, boasting 20 All-Star appearances, seven World Series championships, three AL MVP titles, and even a coveted Triple Crown. Throughout his Hall of Fame career, the Yankees legend showcased his remarkable power, slugging a total of 536 home runs.

#5. Gary Sheffield, 509 HRs

Gary Sheffield, possessing extraordinary talent and a distinct batting stance, experienced a fruitful 21-year journey in Major League Baseball. This nine-time All-Star showcased his skills while representing eight different teams, ultimately accumulating an impressive tally of 509 home runs throughout his career. Regrettably, allegations of PED use have prevented the accomplished outfielder from being enshrined in the esteemed Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown. He played for the Yankees from 2004 to 2006.

The MLB 500-HR club

Gary Sheffield’s 500th home run marked a significant milestone in his career, and it happened to be his first-ever home run as a member of the New York Mets. This unique achievement distinguished Sheffield as the first player to hit his 500th home run with a franchise where it was also his first. On the other end of the age spectrum, Alex Rodriguez holds the record for the youngest player to reach this feat, achieving it at the age of 32 years and 8 days, while the legendary Ted Williams accomplished the milestone at the ripe age of 41 years and 291 days, making him the oldest player to do so.

The latest addition to the 500-home run club is Miguel Cabrera, who achieved this milestone on August 22, 2021. Among the members of this elite group, six players were born outside of the United States: Sammy Sosa, Manny Ramirez, Albert Pujols, and David Ortiz hail from the Dominican Republic, Rafael Palmeiro is from Cuba, and Miguel Cabrera was born in Venezuela.

Can Yankees’ Aaron Judge and Stanton ever reach the 500-HR club?

At 33 years old, Giancarlo Stanton has the potential to add more home runs to his current tally of 394, achieved over 14 seasons as of August 5, 2023. If the Yankees’ hardest hitter maintains an average of 25 to 30 home runs over the next five years and remains healthy, he could come close to joining the prestigious 500-home run club.

At 31 years old, Aaron Judge holds the impressive AL record for the most home runs in a single season, hitting a remarkable 62 home runs in 2022. Over the last eight years, the Yankees’ captain has accumulated a total of 240 home runs as of August 5, 2023. While known for his incredible exit velocity and power hitting, Judge’s abilities extend beyond just hitting home runs; he is a truly great hitter overall and is expected to continue hitting a significant number of homers over the next seven years. However, due to his age, it may be challenging for him to reach the 500-home run milestone, even if he maintains an average of 40 home runs over the next six seasons. Nonetheless, if the Yankees’ slugger has a few more seasons like his exceptional performance in 2022, it could greatly enhance his chances of achieving this milestone.

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