Babe Ruth is one of the most iconic figures in baseball history. He was a larger-than-life character, with an almost mythical aura surrounding him. Ruth changed the game of baseball forever and was a star on and off the field. His legacy is still felt today, more than a century after he first stepped onto the diamond.
But what do we know about Ruth’s life and career? A great way to get a better understanding of the man is to take a look at the pictures of Babe Ruth that have been preserved over the years. These photos give us a glimpse into the life of the legendary slugger and show us how he changed the game of baseball forever.
Early Years in the Majors
The first picture of Babe Ruth dates back to 1914 when he was a rookie with the Boston Red Sox. The young Ruth is seen posing for a team photo, wearing a bright smile and the classic Red Sox uniform. This picture captures the innocence and enthusiasm of a young man just starting out in the major leagues.
Other pictures from Ruth’s early years show him in action on the diamond. There’s a photo of him batting during the 1915 World Series, as well as a shot of him rounding the bases during a game in 1916. These photos illustrate Ruth’s incredible talent and show why he quickly became one of the league’s top players.
The "Sultan of Swat"
In 1918, Babe Ruth was traded from the Red Sox to the New York Yankees. This move would prove to be a turning point for both Ruth and the Yankees. Ruth quickly established himself as a star in the Big Apple and earned the nickname "Sultan of Swat" for his prodigious home run hitting.
Pictures from Ruth’s time with the Yankees show him in a variety of poses. There are photos of him signing autographs for fans, as well as shots of him celebrating with his teammates after a big win. There’s also a memorable photo of Ruth shaking hands with President Calvin Coolidge at the White House.
Final Years and Legacy
As Ruth’s career was winding down, pictures of him began to show a more mature side of the slugger. There are shots of him in a suit, looking every bit the businessman. Other photos capture the somber side of Ruth’s retirement from baseball, as well as his later years spent in a hospital bed fighting the illnesses that eventually took his life.
The pictures of Babe Ruth tell a powerful story of a man who changed the game of baseball forever. His legacy lives on and will continue to be celebrated for many years to come. The next time you’re watching a game of baseball, take a moment to remember the "Sultan of Swat" and all he has done for the sport.
