Last Updated: February 22nd, 2024 by Jake Cain
While the steroids era in baseball changed some of the traditional benchmarks that defined greatness for power hitters, the 500-home run club is still pretty elite.
Historically, 500 home runs meant you were headed to Cooperstown.
However, some of the players who are suspected of PED use in the modern era are still on the outside looking in.
Nevertheless, here’s the full list of 28 players in baseball’s illustrious 500 HR Club as of 2024:
Mel Ott – 511
Mel Ott, affectionately known as “Master Melvin,” hit an impressive total of 511 home runs during his Major League Baseball career. He achieved this milestone while playing for a single team, the New York Giants, which is a testament to his loyalty and consistent power at the plate. Ott’s 511 homers were not just numerous; they were pioneering, making him the first National League player to surpass the 500-home run mark, indicative of his status as one of baseball’s great power hitters.
Miguel Cabrera – 511
Miguel Cabrera, a prominent figure in baseball, achieved a significant career milestone with 511 home runs. Earning his place among the elite, he not only reached the 500 home run club but exceeded it. He successfully maintained a career batting average of .306, a testament to his consistent power and contact hitting.
Cabrera hit his home runs split almost evenly between playing at home and on the road, with 256 at home and 255 away. His versatility as a hitter is showcased by the variety of his homers: 276 solo shots, 175 two-run homers, 54 three-run homers, and 6 grand slams. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations was notable, reflecting his resilience and competitive edge.
Compiling his home runs against 356 different pitchers, Cabrera often did the most damage batting third in the lineup. His career has been spent with the Florida Marlins and the Detroit Tigers, where he has left an indelible mark on the game. Cabrera’s accolades include joining the 500 home run and 3,000 hit clubs, an achievement that underscores his exceptional skill and longevity in Major League Baseball.
Eddie Mathews – 512
Eddie Mathews is remembered for his powerful swing that granted him entry into the exclusive 500 Home Runs Club, ending his career with a notable 512 homers. He achieved this milestone while playing as a third baseman and first baseman, showing both defensive versatility and offensive consistency. Not just statistics, his performance reflected his status as one of baseball’s formidable sluggers, a true force during his time with the Braves, Astros, and Tigers. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1978, Mathews’ legacy extends beyond mere numbers; he represented the Braves in three cities, capturing the spirit of the franchise through the decades. His historic 500th home run, hit off Juan Marichal, cemented his place among the game’s elite power hitters.
Ernie Banks – 512
Ernie Banks, affectionately known as “Mr. Cub,” solidified his legacy with 512 career home runs. He was a remarkable power hitter, especially noted for being a shortstop with a significant home run tally, which was a record at the time of his retirement. Banks’ storied career with the Chicago Cubs, spanning from 1953 to 1971, includes two MVP Awards and 14 All-Star appearances, making him one of baseball’s all-time greats.
Frank Thomas – 521
Frank Thomas, known by many as “The Big Hurt,” is unmistakable for his immense contribution to baseball. With a swing that coupled power and precision, Thomas racked himself up 521 career home runs. He not only showcased consistent long-ball hitting but also exhibited remarkable discipline at the plate, amassing over 1,600 walks in his career.
Thomas’ rare blend of power and patience earned him a .301 career batting average, placing him in an elite group of hitters with over 500 homers and a batting average above .300. His time with the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, and Toronto Blue Jays solidified his status as a formidable designated hitter and feared presence in the batter’s box.
His accolades, including two MVP awards and five All-Star recognitions, barely scratch the surface in describing the impact Thomas had on the game. Dissecting Thomas’ career numbers tells a story of sheer consistency and strength, reinforcing his legacy as one of baseball’s all-time great power hitters.
Willie McCovey – 521
Willie McCovey was a legendary power hitter, totaling 521 home runs throughout his storied career. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1986, he showcased his skill predominantly with the San Francisco Giants, also playing for the San Diego Padres and Oakland Athletics. His towering home runs were a mix of 282 solo shots, 154 two-run homers, 67 three-run blasts, and 18 grand slams, ensuring his place among baseball’s elite sluggers.
Ted Williams – 521
Ted Williams, often recognized as one of the greatest hitters in the history of baseball, hit a remarkable total of 521 home runs during his illustrious career. His powerful swing and precise eye led him to reach this milestone over a 19-year span with the Boston Red Sox, a tenure highlighted by two MVP awards and interrupted only by military service. Despite playing in an era not characterized by the long ball, Williams left an indelible mark on the game, maintaining a stellar batting average and securing his place in Cooperstown.
Jimmie Foxx – 534
Jimmie Foxx was an impressive power hitter, tallying a remarkable 534 home runs during his 20-year baseball career. Playing primarily as a first baseman who also saw time at third base and behind the plate, Foxx demonstrated versatility and enduring skill in the Major Leagues. His hitting prowess placed him in the esteemed company of baseball’s elite, a status further cemented by his posthumous induction into the Hall of Fame in 1951.
Mickey Mantle – 536
Mickey Mantle, known for his remarkable power as a switch-hitter, solidified his legacy with a total of 536 home runs during his storied career with the New York Yankees. His home run achievement places him among the elite sluggers in baseball history. Despite the challenges of injuries and a dip in performance near the end of his career that saw his batting average fall to .237 in 1968, Mantle’s home run count remained impressive, reflecting his enduring ability to change the course of a game with a single swing.
Mantle’s historic final home run came on September 20, 1968, an event remembered as the symbolic end of a golden era in baseball. He hit more home runs on the road, totaling 270, compared to 266 at home, which points to his consistent power across different ballparks. Through his 18 seasons, all with the Yankees, Mantle’s home runs helped lead the team to seven World Series titles, exemplifying his role as a crucial contributor to the Yankees’ dominance during the 1950s and 60s.
David Ortiz – 541
David Ortiz is a celebrated power hitter recognized for his impressive career home run total of 541. Having played for the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox, Ortiz solidified his legacy with moments like his clutch postseason performances. His career batting average was a solid .286, reflecting his consistent ability to contribute offensively beyond just home runs.
Mike Schmidt – 548
Mike Schmidt stands as one of baseball’s greats, having slammed 548 home runs throughout his illustrious career. He exclusively played for the Philadelphia Phillies, showcasing loyalty to a single team that’s become a rarity in modern sports. Schmidt’s prowess at the plate was balanced by his defensive skill, securing him 10 Gold Glove Awards and making him a model for all-around players.
A testament to Schmidt’s impact is seen in his three MVP awards and induction into the Hall of Fame, reflecting a legacy that continues to inspire players and fans alike. His jersey number 20 is retired by the Phillies, immortalizing his influence and contributions to the team and the game. With a lifetime batting average of .267, Schmidt demonstrated consistent performance that, combined with his power, made him an offensive force in Major League Baseball.
Manny Ramirez – 555
Manny Ramirez is recognized as one of baseball’s most prolific hitters, ending his career with a notable 555 home runs. Throughout his time with teams like the Cleveland Indians, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago White Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays, he left a lasting impact with his impressive slugging capabilities. He achieved a lifetime batting average of .312, indicative of his consistent performance and his standing as a formidable presence at the plate.
Reggie Jackson – 563
Reggie Jackson etched his name in baseball lore with a career total of 563 home runs. Known as “Mr. October” for his clutch playoff performances, he played for notable teams, including the New York Yankees and Oakland Athletics, over a 21-year career. Jackson’s powerful swing and ability to perform under pressure placed him among the most revered power hitters in baseball history.
Rafael Palmeiro – 569
Rafael Palmeiro is recognized as one of the most proficient power hitters, amassing a total of 569 home runs during his time in Major League Baseball. He played for the Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, and Baltimore Orioles, showcasing his steady batting prowess across three teams. With a career batting average of .288, Palmeiro’s offensive contributions were both consistent and impactful.
Palmeiro joined an elite group of sluggers when he reached the 500 home run milestone, a feat that places him among baseball’s greatest hitters. His ability to combine power with hitting skill also led him to achieve the notable milestone of over 3,000 hits, making him the fourth player in history to reach both 500 home runs and 3,000 hits. However, his legacy is somewhat tarnished due to a suspension for violating Major League Baseball’s drug policy, which has clouded his candidacy for the Hall of Fame.
Despite this setback, Palmeiro’s career numbers remain a testament to his long-lasting impact on the game. His hitting achievements are often remembered by fans and highlighted by his ability to drive the ball over the fence against 363 different pitchers. Palmeiro’s success at the plate etches his name in the record books, leaving a legacy of power and consistency for baseball aficionados to admire.
Harmon Killebrew – 573
Harmon Killebrew, known to fans as “the Killer,” stands out as one of the greatest power hitters in baseball history. With 573 home runs, he held the prestigious fifth spot for all-time homers for many years, showcasing his formidable presence at the plate. Throughout his 22-year career, Killebrew demonstrated consistent power, achieving a career batting average of .256 and contributing to the legacy of teams like the Minnesota Twins and the Washington Senators. His impressive home run tally included milestones like 11 grand slams and 277 solo homers, signifying his ability to change the game’s momentum single-handedly. Killebrew’s consistent performance earned him a place in the Hall of Fame and the hearts of baseball aficionados everywhere.
Mark McGwire – 583
Mark McGwire made a significant impact on Major League Baseball with his powerful hitting, accumulating a total of 583 home runs during his prolific career. He started his journey with the Oakland Athletics, where he gained fame as a part of the “Bash Brothers,” and later continued his home run streak with the St. Louis Cardinals, etching his name into baseball history. Known for his remarkable power at the plate, McGwire’s achievements include a single-season record of 70 home runs in 1998, which stood until 2001 when Barry Bonds surpassed it.
Frank Robinson – 586
Frank Robinson, a Baseball Hall of Famer, finished his career with a commanding tally of 586 home runs, which placed him fourth on the all-time list at the time of his retirement. Robinson was a powerhouse hitter for multiple teams, with an impressive run spanning 21 seasons. Notably, he secured the Triple Crown in 1966, exemplifying his prowess as one of baseball’s all-time great sluggers.
Sammy Sosa – 609
Sammy Sosa stands out as one of baseball’s most prolific home run hitters with a grand total of 609 homers to his credit. His power at the plate was a defining aspect of his 18-season career, during which he played for teams like the Chicago White Sox, Texas Rangers, Chicago Cubs, and Baltimore Orioles. In the lineup, he was particularly effective, hammering the majority of his home runs batting third, and he will long be remembered for the excitement he brought to the game with each swing of his bat.
Jim Thome – 612
Jim Thome established himself as one of baseball’s most formidable power hitters. Over a 22-season career, he amassed 612 home runs, solidifying his place among the elite sluggers. His career batting average was a respectable .276, and he achieved these impressive numbers while playing for six different teams, including a memorable stint with the Cleveland Indians.
Thome’s home run tally places him eighth on the all-time list, a testament to his consistent ability to change the course of a game with one swing. This left-handed hitter not only hit a significant number of homers but also demonstrated remarkable plate discipline, drawing walks and getting on base.
Reflecting on his career, one can’t help but admire the numerous pitchers Thome took deep, with 337 of his homers being solo shots. His prowess at the plate was further complemented by his 1,699 RBIs, making him a critical run producer throughout his time in the MLB.
Ken Griffey Jr. – 630
Ken Griffey Jr., famously dubbed “Junior,” is revered for his home run prowess, notching 630 throughout his storied career. He’s seventh on the all-time home run leaderboard, a feat that cements his legacy in the annals of baseball greats. The breakdown of his home runs is as impressive as the total, with 337 solo homers, 200 two-run homers, 78 three-run homers, and 15 grand slams, a testament to his ability to deliver under varied circumstances.
Junior’s power at the plate was complemented by his defensive excellence in center field, rounding him out as one of the most complete players of his generation. Griffey’s swing, smooth and left-handed, was emblematic of his natural athletic ability and became iconic among baseball aficionados. Lauded for his consistency and clutch performance, Griffey was also known for homering off 406 different pitchers, indicating his adaptability and prowess against a wide range of opponents.
Willie Mays – 660
Willie Mays, often referred to as “The Say Hey Kid,” is celebrated for his stellar career home run total of 660, making him one of baseball’s most revered power hitters. He hit an impressive 365 solo homers and stands out for his ability to perform both at home and on the road, with 335 and 325 home runs respectively. Mays’ achievement is highlighted by his 8 grand slams and versatility in knocking runs in against 266 different pitchers throughout his time in the sport.
Alex Rodriguez – 696
Alex Rodriguez, often known simply as “A-Rod,” is counted among the foremost sluggers with a formidable tally of 696 home runs in his MLB career. He achieved this milestone over a 22-season span, playing for teams like the Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers, and New York Yankees. Notably, his power at the plate was complemented by his versatility, initially breaking into the majors as a shortstop and later transitioning to third base.
Rodriguez’s home run count places him fourth on the all-time list, an achievement that underscores his sustained performance and impact on the game. He hit a peak with 57 homers in 2002, showcasing his exceptional skill as a hitter. His prowess extended to clutch moments, with 25 grand slams to his name, the most in MLB history.
Despite a career marked by outstanding achievements, A-Rod’s legacy is complex due to his admission of using performance-enhancing drugs. Nevertheless, his statistical contribution to baseball is unquestionable, and he remains a central figure in discussions about the game’s greatest hitters.
Albert Pujols – 703
Albert Pujols, one of baseball’s legendary power hitters, achieved a career total of 703 home runs. He notably reached his 500th homer milestone in 2014, joining a prestigious group of sluggers in the 500 Home Run Club. Pujols’ home run tally is split between 333 at home and 370 on the road, showcasing his consistent ability to go deep whether playing at his own ballpark or as a visitor.
During his illustrious tenure in the majors, Pujols slugged 382 solo home runs, along with 216 two-run homers, 89 three-run homers, and 16 grand slams. He garnered homers off 458 different pitchers, with significant frequency while hitting third in the lineup, cementing his reputation as a clutch player in the heart of the order. His long-ball prowess was further highlighted by his final home run count, with detailed statistics available on Baseball Almanac.
Pujols played for teams like the St. Louis Cardinals and the Los Angeles Angels, winning two World Series titles with the Cardinals. Throughout his career, he had an impressive .296 batting average. His established legacy is not just in his power but also in his capacity as a run-producer and a feared presence in the batter’s box.
Babe Ruth – 714
Babe Ruth, one of the most iconic sluggers in baseball, set a towering benchmark with his 714 career home runs, a record that stood for 39 years. He was the first player to reach and surpass the 500 home run milestone, blazing a trail for future generations of hitters. Ruth’s career spanned 22 seasons, from his debut with the Boston Red Sox in 1914, through his legendary years with the New York Yankees, and concluding with the Boston Braves in 1935.
His prowess at the plate earned him an astounding .342 batting average, and his ability to hit home runs changed the way the game was played. Ruth’s influence extended beyond the field; he became a symbol of the “live-ball” era, and his charismatic persona captivated fans across the nation. His impact on the sport is commemorated at sites like Baseball-Reference.com.
Though many have joined the coveted 500 home run club since Ruth’s era, few have matched the cultural impact of “The Great Bambino‘s” legendary career. His name remains synonymous with power hitting, and his figures continue to loom large in the annals of Major League Baseball history.
Henry Aaron – 755
Henry Aaron, commonly known by the nickname “Hammerin’ Hank,” secured his place as one of baseball’s greatest home run hitters. With an impressive 755 career home runs, Aaron held the all-time home run record for 33 years before it was surpassed. His career spanned 23 seasons, predominantly with the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves, and his consistency at the plate was remarkable, reflected by his .305 batting average.
Aaron hit his historic 715th home run on April 8, 1974, surpassing Babe Ruth’s long-standing record, a moment etched in baseball lore. His power combined with hitting prowess placed him in an elite class of hitters, and he remains an iconic figure in the sport well after his retirement. Beyond the home runs, Aaron was a model of durability and excellence, also becoming one of only a few members of the 3,000-hit club.
Barry Bonds – 762
Barry Bonds, one of the most dominant hitters in MLB history, holds the record for the most home runs with a staggering total of 762. His career, spanning from 1986 to 2007, included stints with the Pittsburgh Pirates and the San Francisco Giants. Bonds surpassed Hank Aaron’s long-standing record of 755 home runs on August 7, 2007, setting a new pinnacle for sluggers to aspire to. His batting prowess was underscored by a career batting average of .298, emphasizing his consistent ability to contribute offensively. His legacy is also marked by seven MVP awards and 14 All-Star selections, reflective of his impact on the game during his career.