Jim Thome Joins 600 HR Club

Thome hitting career HR 600 in a 9-6 victory over the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park Monday Night                

Monday night in Detroit, Minnesota Twins DH Jim Thome hit career home runs 599 and 600 to join the prestigious 600 club. He became the 8th player to reach this milestone. Thome joins Sammy Sosa, Alex Rodriguez, Ken Griffey Jr, Willie Mays, Babe Ruth, Henry (Hank) Aaron and Barry Bonds in the elusive 600 club and Thome was only the fourth lefty to reach this milestone.

Thome joining the 600 club is special for many reasons. One reason, only Ruth got to 600 in fewer at-bats than Thome. For another, Thome did it as quietly as the overwhelming silence around his whole 21-year career. For another, those who know this Minnesota Twins designated hitter the best keep delivering testimonials on how he prospers through the combination of physical talent, mental toughness and hard work. According to Terence Moore from MLB.com, "In other words, Thome isn't linked to performance-enhancing drugs, which has been the case for 600-club members Barry Bonds, Alex Rodriguez and Sammy Sosa. Which means Thome joins only Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Ken Griffey Jr. and Ruth among the untainted at 600."

Thome has played for Cleveland, Chicago (White Sox), Philadelphia and Minnesota during his 21 year MlB career. When Thome hangs up the glove, don't be suprised when you see his name in Cooperstown in the near but not far distant future.