Bob Horner, a remarkable third baseman known for his powerful hitting, has passed away at the age of 68. The Atlanta Braves announced his death on social media after receiving the news from his wife, Chris. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
Horner had an impressive baseball career, hitting 218 home runs over ten years, primarily with the Braves. His standout moment came in 1986 when he became the first Braves player to hit four home runs in a single game, a rare feat during the 1980s.
Before joining the majors, Horner shined at Arizona State University, earning a spot in the College Baseball Hall of Fame. He made history as the first player drafted by the Braves to skip the minor leagues, debuting right in the big leagues. On June 16, 1978, he hit his first home run off Hall of Famer Bert Blyleven.
In his rookie season, he was named the National League Rookie of the Year, finishing with a .266 batting average and 23 home runs in just 89 games. His career peaked in 1980 when he set a personal best with 35 home runs.
Besides his four-homer game in 1986, Horner was an All-Star in 1982, hitting .261 with 32 home runs and 97 RBIs. He eventually left the Braves after the 1986 season to play in Japan for a year before returning to the MLB with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1988. He retired during spring training the following year.
Horner’s achievements included being named MVP of the 1977 College World Series and winning the inaugural Golden Spikes Award in 1978 for being the top college player. He set the NCAA record with 56 home runs, which now belongs to Pete Incaviglia, who hit 100 from 1983-1985.
In a heartfelt tribute, the Braves highlighted how Horner “built a career out of being first,” acknowledging his various milestones that set the stage for future players. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring athletes today.
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