Baseball has a rich history of memorable moments, and here we take a look at the top 10 most exciting moments in baseball history. These include Babe Ruth’s Called Shot during the 1932 World Series, Bobby Thomson’s “Shot Heard ‘Round the World” in the 1951 National League pennant playoff game, Don Larsen’s Perfect Game during Game 5 of the 1956 World Series, Hank Aaron’s 715th Home Run, and more. Other moments include Jackie Robinson’s Debut, Kirk Gibson’s Game 1 Walk-Off Home Run in the 1988 World Series, and Joe Carter’s Walk-Off World Series Home Run in the 1993 World Series.
The Top 10 Most Exciting Moments in Baseball History
Baseball has been around for over a century and during that time, there have been countless games, players and moments that have made this sport the national pastime. Here is a list of the top 10 most exciting moments in baseball history.
Babe Ruth’s Called Shot
During Game 3 of the 1932 World Series, Babe Ruth supposedly pointed to center field, indicating that he would hit a home run in that direction. He then proceeded to hit a home run to center field, cementing his place as a baseball legend.
Bobby Thomson’s “Shot Heard ‘Round the World”
In the bottom of the 9th inning of the 1951 National League pennant playoff game, Bobby Thomson hit a game-winning home run off of Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Ralph Branca. This moment is known as the “Shot Heard ‘Round the World,” and it is one of the most famous moments in baseball history.
Don Larsen’s Perfect Game
In Game 5 of the 1956 World Series, New York Yankees pitcher Don Larsen threw a perfect game against the Brooklyn Dodgers. This is the only perfect game ever thrown in World Series history, making it a truly exciting moment in baseball history.
Hank Aaron’s 715th Home Run
In 1974, Hank Aaron broke Babe Ruth’s record for all-time home runs when he hit his 715th home run. This moment represented a significant moment in baseball history as the sport was still grappling with issues of race and inclusion.
Bill Mazeroski’s Game 7 Walk-Off Home Run
In Game 7 of the 1960 World Series between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the New York Yankees, Bill Mazeroski hit a walk-off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning. This moment is considered one of the most exciting moments in baseball history, as it gave the Pirates their first World Series championship in 35 years.
Cal Ripken Jr.’s Record-Breaking Game
In 1995, Cal Ripken Jr. broke Lou Gehrig’s record for consecutive games played when he played in his 2,131st consecutive game. This was an incredible moment as Ripken Jr. showed not only his incredible durability, but also his love and dedication to the game of baseball.
Jackie Robinson’s Debut
In 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first African-American player in Major League Baseball history. His debut represented a significant moment in baseball history as the sport was forced to confront racism and discrimination within its ranks.
Kirk Gibson’s Game 1 Walk-Off Home Run
In Game 1 of the 1988 World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Oakland Athletics, Kirk Gibson hit a game-winning, walk-off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning. This moment is often considered one of the most exciting moments in baseball history as Gibson, who was injured and almost didn’t play, heroically stepped up to the plate and delivered for his team.
Reggie Jackson’s Three Home Runs in a World Series Game
In Game 6 of the 1977 World Series between the New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers, Reggie Jackson hit three home runs in one game. This moment earned Jackson the nickname “Mr. October” and solidified his place as one of the greatest postseason players in baseball history.
Joe Carter’s Walk-Off World Series Home Run
In Game 6 of the 1993 World Series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Philadelphia Phillies, Joe Carter hit a walk-off home run to give the Blue Jays their second consecutive World Series championship. This moment is considered one of the most exciting moments in baseball history as it gave the Blue Jays and their fans a moment they will never forget.