May 25, 1935 – Babe Ruth hits his last three home runs setting a career record with 714, a record that would stand for 39 years

Those home runs were the final home runs of Babe Ruth‘ career. Five days later he injured his knee in a game against the Phillies. That game was the final game in his career as he announced his retirement two days later.

Known for his hitting brilliance, Ruth set career records in his time for home runs (714 since broken), slugging percentage (.690), runs batted in (RBI) (2,213 since broken), bases on balls (2,062 since broken), and on-base plus slugging (OPS) (1.164). Ruth originally entered the major leagues with the Boston Red Sox as a starting pitcher, but after he was sold to the New York Yankees in 1919, he converted to a full-time right fielder. He subsequently became one of the league’s most prolific hitters and with his home run hitting prowess, he helped the Yankees win seven pennants and four World Series titles. Ruth retired in 1935 after a short stint with the Boston Braves, and the following year, he became one of the first five players to be elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame.