Home Run Milestones

Looks like this could be a monumental season as far as home run milestones. Of course, the most obvious, most talked about, most hated and dreaded is Bonds' chase of Aaron's 755. Barry is within 10 now, having hit 11 in 30 games, including 3 in his last 16 ABs. It's only a matter of time. Word is that Aaron does NOT plan on being on-hand for the occasion.

Lost in all the hoopla and controversy surrounding Bonds are:

Sammy Sosa, in a comeback, looking to become the 5th ever to hit 600+ (5 to go after hitting 7 so far). Of course, he's no cleaner than Bonds when it comes to steroid suspicions. Then there is Ken Griffey, Jr., who earlier today tied Rafael Palmeiro (yet another 'roid user) for 9th all-time at 569, and could easily end the year at no. 6 (currently held by Frank Robinson, 586).

Then there are FOUR players with a decent chance of joining the 500 club this year: Frank Thomas (491, 4 in 2007); A-Rod (479, 15 in 2007, might hit 500 around--get this--his 32nd birthday!); Jim Thome (477, 5 in 19 games this year before his injury, from which he expects to return soon); and Manny Ramirez (476, 6 in 2007, including 4 in his last 8 games).

If they all make it, the 500 Club will be getting a little crowded, with 24 members. The 600 club, with 5, will have more than the 500 Club had when I was born in 1962. The exclusive club then had only Ruth, Foxx, Ott and Ted Williams, before the gates burst open in the 1960's and early 70's with Matthews, Banks, Mays, Aaron, Mantle, Robinson, Killebrew and McCovey added in short order. Still, I'm pretty sure that four new members have NEVER been admitted in any one year!