About the Guest(s):
Leo Foster is a former professional baseball player who was born and raised in Covington, Kentucky. He played as a reserve utility infielder in the Major Leagues for five seasons in the 1970s. Foster had the unique experience of being a teammate of Hank Aaron when Aaron broke Babe Ruth's all-time home run record by hitting his 715th career home run on April 8, 1974. Foster witnessed the historic moment from the dugout and had the opportunity to see the hate mail and death threats that Aaron received during his pursuit of the record. Foster played alongside Aaron and shares his memories and insights from that time.
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Kentucky Sports Memories, host Gary Fogle interviews Leo Foster, a former professional baseball player and teammate of Hank Aaron. Foster shares his experiences and memories of being in the dugout when Aaron broke Babe Ruth's all-time home run record by hitting his 715th career home run. Foster discusses the significance of the moment and the hate mail and death threats that Aaron received during his pursuit of the record. He also reflects on his own career and the differences in salaries between his time in the Major Leagues and the salaries of players today.
Key Takeaways:
Leo Foster witnessed Hank Aaron's historic 715th career home run, which broke Babe Ruth's all-time record. He describes it as an exciting and unforgettable experience.
Hank Aaron received hate mail and death threats during his pursuit of the home run record. Foster saw the letters and was amazed at Aaron's ability to perform despite the threats.
Foster did not view Aaron as a father figure, but rather as a talented and approachable teammate. Aaron did not offer advice unless asked, but was willing to share his philosophy on hitting.
In his major league debut, Foster hit into a triple play, making him possibly the only player in history to do so in their debut. He looks back on the experience with humor.
Foster reflects on the difference in salaries between his time in the Major Leagues and the salaries of players today. While the money was significant at the time, it is incomparable to the salaries of modern players.
Resources:
Listen to the full episode to hear Leo Foster's firsthand account of being Hank Aaron's teammate during the historic 715th career home run. Gain insights into the significance of the moment, the challenges Aaron faced, and the differences in salaries between Foster's time in the Major Leagues and today. Stay tuned for more captivating stories and interviews on Kentucky Sports Memories.
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