Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Alex Rodriguez blasted the 661st home run of his career on Thursday to pass Willie Mays as the fourth most prolific hitter on the all-time list. The milestone blow came in the third inning of the New York Yankees’ 4-3 win over the Baltimore Orioles.
“The reaction was incredible,” Rodriguez said. “I’ve said all along the league, the Yankees, the fans – no one owes me anything. I’m so grateful to be playing baseball and grateful to everybody.”
Rodriguez, who had drawn level with Mays on 660 last week, trails only Babe Ruth (714), Hank Aaron (755) and Barry Bonds (762) in career home runs.
A-Rod’s climb to reach baseball’s greats has come amid controversy after the 39-year-old was suspended for the whole of last year following a doping violation. As he rounded the bases for his record-breaking home run, the scoreboard made just a brief acknowledgment of his feat. He was given a short curtain call by the home New York fans.
Despite the criticism, Rodriguez has had the support of his team-mates. The Yankees outfielder Brett Gardner said: “I know there’s a lot of questions surrounding everything but 661 home runs is still a lot, it’s 650 more than I’ve got, I think.
“I see how hard Alex works every day, how much he loves to compete and I’m really happy for him.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments