ATLANTA – Hank Aaron, who endured racist threats with stoic dignity during his pursuit of Babe Ruth but went on to break the career home run record in the pre-steroids era, died early Friday.
The Atlanta Braves said Aaron died peacefully in his sleep.
“Hammerin’ Hank” set a wide array of career hitting records during a 23-year career spent mostly with the Milwaukee and Atlanta Braves, including RBIs, extra-base hits and total bases.
WEST PALM BEACH, FL - MARCH 5: Hank Aaron #44 of the Atlanta Braves takes batting practice before an MLB Spring Training game on March 5, 1972 in West Palm Beach, Florida.
“Hammerin’ Hank” set multiple hitting records during a 23-year career spent mostly with the Braves, including RBIs, extra-base hits and total bases.