Challenges Faced by Babe Ruth: Obstacles and Turning Points

Life is full of challenges, and Babe Ruth faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Babe Ruth, nicknamed "the Bambino" and "the Sultan of Swat," was a celebrated American baseball player who played in MLB from 1914 to 1935. Initially a star left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, he gained legendary status as a slugging outfielder for the New York Yankees. Widely regarded as one of the greatest sports heroes and baseball players ever, Ruth revolutionized the game with his power hitting and charismatic personality. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936 as one of its first members, solidifying his place in baseball history.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

November 11, 1922: Morals Clause Signed

On November 11, 1922, Babe Ruth and Ruppert signed a contract addendum with a morals clause, requiring Ruth to abstain from alcohol and adhere to a curfew.

1925: Separation from Helen

Around 1925, Babe Ruth and his wife Helen separated reportedly because of Ruth's repeated infidelities and neglect.

1925: Ruth collapses and is hospitalized

In early 1925, Babe Ruth's health deteriorated due to his lifestyle. He collapsed in Asheville, North Carolina, and was hospitalized in New York, with rumors circulating about his death. His illness was attributed to binging on hot dogs and soda pop, known as "the bellyache heard 'round the world." Ruth played only 98 games and had his worst season as a Yankee.

1932: Rift with Lou Gehrig

In 1932, a comment by Lou Gehrig's mother about Claire's treatment of Dorothy caused a seven-year rift in Babe Ruth's relationship with teammate Lou Gehrig.

1934: Desire to Manage the Yankees

Early in the 1934 season, Babe Ruth openly expressed his desire to manage the Yankees. However, the job was not a serious possibility as Ruppert supported McCarthy. By the end of the season, Ruth hinted he would retire if not named Yankees manager.

1937: Lack of Managerial Offers

By the end of the 1937 season, despite Babe Ruth's hope to be hired as a manager after his retirement as a player, only one managerial position became available (Cleveland), and he was not considered. Team owners and general managers cited his personal habits as a reason for excluding him.

November 1946: Diagnosis of Cancer

In November 1946, Babe Ruth entered French Hospital in New York for tests, which revealed that he had an inoperable malignant tumor at the base of his skull and in his neck.

1946: Illness with Nasopharyngeal Cancer

In 1946, Babe Ruth became ill with nasopharyngeal cancer, which would eventually lead to his death two years later. This marked the beginning of his final years, during which he still made public appearances.

1946: Final Effort to Gain a Job in Baseball

In 1946, Babe Ruth made a final effort to gain a job in baseball by contacting new Yankees boss MacPhail, but he was sent a rejection letter. This marked the end of his attempts to secure a managerial or coaching position in baseball.

1999: Ruth's Depression

In 1999, Babe Ruth's granddaughter, Linda Tosetti, and his daughter, Julia Ruth Stevens, stated that his inability to land a managerial role with the Yankees caused him to feel hurt and slump into a severe depression.