Former Blue Jays outfielder a unique part of baseball history
Photo credit: Society For American Baseball Research
It was Sept 10, 1973. Hank Aaron had just hit his 710th home run of his career, on route to breaking Babe Ruth's all time record. But in the stands, something else was happening. An eight year old kid from Saraland, Alabama, was watching his first major league baseball game that day. What he saw inspired his own baseball career - and helped him be a part of history.
Turner Ward ended up playing 12 seasons in the majors, including 2.5 for the Toronto Blue Jays. Initially acquired in a mid-season trade with Cleveland in 1991, Ward was a member of both the 1992 and 1993 World Series winning teams.
While not much of a player, Ward did have his signature moment while playing with Pittsburgh in 1998. On May 3rd, he broke through the right-field wall while chasing a fly ball. The spectacular catch was a staple of highlight reels for the rest of the year.
After his career ended, Ward got into coaching. This included stints as the major league hitting instructor with both the Arizona Diamondbacks and St. Louis Cardinals. It just during his time with the RedBirds that he witnessed another historic home run.
Ward was present on the night of September 23rd, 2022, when Albert Pujols hit home runs number 699 and 700. This makes Ward perhaps the only person to witness two 700+ home runs.
Only four players in major league history have 700 or more home runs. Turner Ward had a relationship with two of them.
To quote Sarah Langs, baseball is the best.
SOURCE - John Denton for MLB.com
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