Challenges Faced by Babe Ruth: Obstacles and Turning Points

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 6, 2026

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

Babe Ruth, an American professional baseball player (1914-1935), is widely considered the greatest baseball player ever. Initially a star left-handed pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, he achieved legendary status as a slugging outfielder for the New York Yankees. Known as "the Bambino" and "the Sultan of Swat," Ruth revolutionized baseball with his powerful hitting. He was among the first five players inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936, cementing his place as an American sports icon.

Sections (6)

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

June 13, 1902: Entered St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys

On June 13, 1902, Babe Ruth entered St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys at the age of seven and was recorded as "incorrigible." He spent much of the next 12 years there.

1921: Ruth's contract negotiations

In 1921, Ruth wanted to renegotiate his contract, which was signed before the 1919 season for $10,000 per year through 1921. He demanded that his salary be doubled, or he would sit out the season.

November 11, 1922: Ruth and Ruppert sign contract addendum with morals clause

On November 11, 1922, Babe Ruth and Yankees co-owner Ruppert signed a contract addendum that included a morals clause. This required Ruth to abstain from alcohol and adhere to a 1:00 a.m. curfew during the baseball season, and avoid any behavior that would compromise his ability to play.

1922: Ruth's suspension and captaincy loss

In 1922, Ruth was suspended, fined, and stripped of his position as team captain after an incident with an umpire and a heckler. Despite appearing in 110 games, batting .315 with 35 home runs, the season was considered a disappointment.

1923: Efforts to stay in shape

In 1923, Babe Ruth tried to stay in shape, but he was described as having a large upper body with thin wrists and legs, resembling "toothpicks attached to a piano".

1924: Continuing fitness efforts

Babe Ruth continued his efforts to stay in shape in 1924.

1925: Illness and poor performance

In early 1925, Babe Ruth weighed nearly 260 pounds (120 kg) and became ill during his annual visit to Hot Springs, Arkansas. He collapsed in Asheville, North Carolina, and was hospitalized in New York. A rumor of his death circulated, and the cause of his illness, known as "the bellyache heard 'round the world", was attributed to binging on hot dogs and soda pop. He played only 98 games and had his worst season as a Yankee, with a .290 average and 25 home runs. The Yankees finished next to last in the AL.

1929: Yankees Losing Season and Huggins' Death

In 1929, the Yankees started well but ultimately finished second behind the Athletics. Manager Huggins died of erysipelas on September 25, only ten days after he last directed the team.

November 1946: Ruth diagnosed with inoperable malignant tumor

In November 1946, Babe Ruth was diagnosed with an inoperable malignant tumor at the base of his skull and in his neck, identified as nasopharyngeal carcinoma, after undergoing tests at French Hospital in New York.