Eddie Mathews: The 1950s Home Run King

When discussing the most home runs hit in the 1950s, many would point to Mickey Mantle or Duke Snider. However, a more in-depth look reveals a different home run king: Eddie Mathews. Let's dive into how Mathews stacked up against his contemporaries and why his contributions were significant in a different way.

The Home Run Leaders of the 1950s

The player who hit the most home runs in the 1950s was actually Eddie Mathews, who played for the Milwaukee Braves. Over the decade from 1950 to 1959, Mathews hit a total of 313 home runs. This places him in first place, with Duke Snider following close behind with 326, and Gil Hodges in third with 310. Mickey Mantle, while a legendary player, hit 313 home runs, placing him in the same position as Mathews.

Home Park Bias and Raw Totals

While the raw total is important, considering the home park bias can provide a more accurate picture of each player's power hitting prowess. Both Duke Snider and Gil Hodges were beneficiaries of playing in hitter-friendly parks, particularly in Brooklyn. Their at-bats were likely inflated by the advantageous conditions of their home stadiums.

Player Home Park Home Games HR Road Games HR Duke Snider Brooklyn 187 139 Gil Hodges Brooklyn 173 137

Duke Snider's home park lifespan contributed nearly 50 additional home runs to his tally in the 1950s. Meanwhile, Eddie Mathews played in Milwaukee, where County Stadium was notoriously unfriendly to hitters. Mathews' home run splits show:

Eddie Mathews Home Park Home Games HR Road Games HR 129 170

Counting only the home games, Mathews' home run total is 170, compared to Snider's 141, Mantle's 139, and Hodges' 137. This shift in perspective highlights Mathews' impressive power hitting abilities, even in difficult conditions.

First Cover of Sports Illustrated

Eddie Mathews was not only a prolific home run hitter, but he also broke new ground off the field. He was the cover of the first issue of Sports Illustrated, a significant milestone for any player seeking recognition and a spotlight on his achievements. Throughout his career, he hit 512 home runs, with 58 of those home runs coming in the 1950s.

Remembering an Impactful Era

The mention of home run kings makes me think of Terry Cashman's classic 80s song, "Willie, Mickey, The Duke." It's a fun, nostalgic reminder of the great players who dominated the baseball world during this era. Mathews was honored with a place among these legends, but his legacy stands on the strength of his hitting prowess, both in favorable and unfavorable conditions.

While Mickey Mantle, Duke Snider, and Gil Hodges certainly had their moments, it is Mathews who emerges as the true home run king of the 1950s. His career and achievements serve as a testament to enduring greatness and the indomitable spirit of a baseball legend.