Harmon Killebrew

Harmon Killebrew was born on June 29th, 1936

Full Name: Harmon Killebrew

Nationality: American

Profession: Baseball Player

Place of Birth: Payette, Idaho

Occupation: Baseball

Notable Team: Minnesota Twins

Education: Unknown

Known For: American Baseball

A legendary slugger who smashed 559 home runs, earning the nickname "The Killer" for his powerful swing and impressive career statistics.

Written by:

Jack Thompson

The Legendary Harmon Killebrew: The Power Hitting Icon of Baseball

Known for his incredible power hitting, Harmon Killebrew is widely regarded as one of the greatest sluggers in baseball history. With 559 home runs to his name, Killebrew held the fifth spot in the all-time home run list at the time of his retirement, and was second only to the legendary Babe Ruth in American League home runs.

Early Life and Career

Born on June 29, 1936, in Payette, Idaho, Killebrew was the youngest of four children. He developed a passion for baseball from an early age, and his natural talent and dedication earned him a spot on his high school team. After graduating, Killebrew was signed by the Washington Senators as an amateur free agent in 1954, marking the beginning of his illustrious baseball career.

Rise to Fame

Killebrew made his major league debut in 1954, but it wasn't until he joined the Minnesota Twins in 1961 that he truly found his footing. With the Twins, Killebrew's power hitting earned him the nickname "The Killer," and he quickly became a fan favorite. He led the league in home runs six times and was named to 13 All-Star teams, cementing his status as one of the greatest power hitters of his era.

Awards and Accolades

Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984
Won the American League Most Valuable Player Award in 1969
Named to 13 All-Star teams
Won the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award in 1964
Won the Roberto Clemente Award in 1977

Playing Style and Legacy

Killebrew's compact swing and exceptional upper body strength made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. He was known for hitting some of the longest home runs in baseball history, including a 520-foot blast at Metropolitan Stadium in Minnesota. His incredible power and consistent performance earned him a place among the all-time greats, and his humble and kind nature made him a beloved figure both on and off the field.

Post-Baseball Life

After retiring from baseball in 1975, Killebrew went on to become a television broadcaster for several teams, including the Twins, Oakland Athletics, and California Angels. He also served as a hitting instructor for the Athletics, sharing his expertise with the next generation of players. Killebrew passed away on May 17, 2011, but his legacy lives on as one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history.

Timeline

1936

Born in Payette, Idaho

Harmon Clayton Killebrew Jr. was born on June 29, 1936, in Payette, Idaho. He would go on to become one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history.

1954

Signed with Washington Senators

At just 18 years old, Killebrew signed with the Washington Senators as an amateur free agent, beginning his professional baseball career.

1959

Made MLB Debut

Killebrew made his major league debut on June 23, 1959, for the Washington Senators. He would play 22 seasons in the MLB.

1961

Hit 46 Home Runs

In his breakout season, Killebrew hit 46 home runs, finishing fifth in the American League MVP voting and helping the Senators win 61 games.

1984

Inducted into Hall of Fame

Killebrew was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame on January 10, 1984, with an impressive 83.1% of the vote in his fourth year of eligibility.

Harmon Killebrew Quiz

What nickname was Harmon Killebrew given due to his powerful swing?

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FAQ

What was Harmon Killebrews batting style?

Harmon Killebrew was a power-hitting outfielder and first baseman who was known for his aggressive batting style, earning him the nickname The Killer. He was a prodigious home run hitter, belting 559 home runs during his 22-year MLB career.

What awards did Harmon Killebrew win?

Harmon Killebrew was a 13-time All-Star, winning six American League home run titles and being inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1984. He also won the American League Most Valuable Player award in 1969.

Which teams did Harmon Killebrew play for?

Harmon Killebrew played for the Washington Senators (1954-1960), Minnesota Twins (1961-1974), and Kansas City Royals (1975).

How did Harmon Killebrew get involved in baseball?

Harmon Killebrew was discovered by a Senator scout while playing American Legion baseball in his hometown of Payette, Idaho. He signed with the Senators at the age of 17 and made his MLB debut three years later.

What was Harmon Killebrews legacy?

Harmon Killebrews legacy is that of one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history. He was a beloved figure in Minnesota, where he played for 14 seasons, and his number 3 jersey was retired by the Twins in 1975.

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