Hank Aaron

Hank Aaron, born on February 5, 1934, in Mobile, Alabama, is widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Aaron began his professional career with the Indianapolis Clowns in the Negro American League before moving to the Milwaukee Braves in the Major League Baseball in 1954, where he won numerous titles, including a World Series championship.

Aaron is known for his remarkable hitting power, consistency, fielding skills, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, including the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, and holds multiple records, such as the most career runs batted in (RBIs) and total bases.

Off the field, Aaron is also recognized for his philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

Indianapolis Clowns

• Early Career: Aaron started his professional baseball career with the Indianapolis Clowns in the Negro American League, showcasing his exceptional talent.

Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves

• Major League Success: Aaron moved to the Milwaukee Braves in 1954. During his time with the Braves, he developed into one of the world's best hitters, winning a World Series championship, and his only MVP award in 1957.

Milwaukee Brewers

• Later Career: In 1975, Aaron was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers where he spent the last two years of his career. Even in his declining years, he continued to contribute significantly to the team.

USA National Team

• International Career: Despite playing in an era before international competitions like the World Baseball Classic, Aaron represented the USA in exhibition games, further cementing his status as a global baseball icon.

• Position: Primarily a right fielder, but also played at first base and left field.
• Skills: Known for his exceptional hitting power, consistency, fielding skills, and versatility. Aaron is celebrated for his powerful swings, base-running, and defensive abilities.

• Family: Aaron was married to Billye Aaron and together they had five children.
• Philanthropy: Aaron was involved in various charitable activities and has donated significant sums to educational institutions and civil rights organizations.

• Hank Aaron is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his work ethic, determination, and longevity in professional baseball. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the field, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Career Runs Batted In (RBIs):

• Over 2,297 RBIs

Most Total Bases:

• Over 6,856 total bases

Most Extra Base Hits:

• Over 1,477 extra base hits

Second Most Home Runs:

• 755 home runs

Books

• Aaron, H., & Wheeler, L. (1992). I Had a Hammer: The Hank Aaron Story. New York: HarperCollins Publishers.
• Bryant, H. (2010). The Last Hero: A Life of Henry Aaron. New York: Pantheon Books.

Websites

• MLB: Information about Hank Aaron’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.mlb.com
• Atlanta Braves: Details about Aaron’s career at Atlanta Braves. Available at: https://www.mlb.com/braves
• Milwaukee Brewers: Official site with updates on Aaron’s performance and records at Milwaukee Brewers. Available at: https://www.mlb.com/brewers

Articles

• ESPN: Hank Aaron: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/30761043
• The Guardian: Hank Aaron’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/hank-aaron

Interviews and Documentaries

• Hank Aaron: Chasing the Dream (1995): Directed by Mike Tollin. This documentary provides a detailed look at Aaron’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Hank Aaron, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com