THAT TIME MARIS SURPASSED RUTH

Roger Maris's journey to breaking Babe Ruth's single-season home run record in 1961 was a feat laden with immense pressure, stress, and public scrutiny. His achievement of hitting 61 home runs in a single season came with a significant personal toll, as well as a polarized reception from fans, the media, and even figures within Major League Baseball (MLB) and the Yankees organization.  The pressure of the 1961 season was immense for Maris. As he approached Babe Ruth's iconic record of 60 home runs set in 1927, the stress manifested physically and emotionally. 

According to various accounts, Maris began to exhibit signs of extreme stress, including smoking more heavily and experiencing hair loss. Bob Costas, a renowned sportscaster, highlighted Maris's struggles, noting, "Maris’s hair started falling out in clumps during the stress-filled season".

Maris faced a considerable backlash from fans who revered Babe Ruth. Many were not ready to see Ruth's record surpassed, particularly by Maris, who was perceived as an outsider compared to the more popular Mickey Mantle. The tension was palpable, with fans booing Maris at home games and even sending hate mail. The New York Times reported that fans were particularly harsh, with some sending him threatening letters.

The reaction from Babe Ruth's family was mixed. Julia Ruth Stevens, Babe Ruth's daughter, expressed a bittersweet sentiment. In an interview, she acknowledged the significance of Maris's achievement but also the emotional attachment to her father's record. She said, "It was Dad’s record, and we were proud of it. But Roger deserved to be recognized for his great season."

Figures within Major League Baseball and the Yankees organization had varied reactions to Maris's pursuit and eventual breaking of the record. Ford Frick, the MLB Commissioner at the time, controversially declared that Maris's record would be marked with an asterisk if he did not surpass Ruth's record within the first 154 games of the season, as Ruth's record was set during a 154-game season, while Maris's was during a 162-game season . This decision added to the pressure and controversy surrounding Maris's achievement.

Mickey Mantle was a notable source of support. Despite the media playing up a rivalry between the two, Mantle openly supported Maris. In a documented quote, Mantle said, "Roger was a great player and deserved everything he got. I was rooting for him to break the record" .

Other players to speak out were Yogi Berra, "What Roger did was unbelievable. He worked hard and handled the pressure better than anyone could have expected."

Whitey Ford, and Al Kaline also spoke out in support of Roger. Whitey said, "Roger's accomplishment is a testament to his dedication and skill. It was an honor to be his teammate during this historic season."  Kaline said, "Breaking Ruth’s record is a monumental achievement. Roger showed tremendous courage and perseverance."

After breaking the record on October 1, 1961, Maris's feelings were complex. In various interviews, he expressed relief more than elation. Maris once stated, "It would have been a hell of a lot more fun if I had not hit those 61 home runs. All it brought me was headaches" . This sentiment highlights the toll the pursuit took on him and reflects the broader challenges he faced.

Roger Maris's breaking of Babe Ruth's single-season home run record stands as a monumental achievement in baseball history. However, the journey to 61 home runs was fraught with stress, public scrutiny, and a mixed legacy. Despite the challenges, Maris's accomplishment remains a testament to his resilience and talent, marking an indelible chapter in the annals of Major League Baseball. And finally, as you all know, in 2022, Aaron Judge did the unthinkable, breaking Roger's record of 61 home runs with a new number... 62. 

Judge said of the feat: "Breaking Roger Maris's record is an incredible honor. I have immense respect for what he accomplished and the challenges he faced. To be mentioned alongside him is something I'll cherish forever."

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor