New York Yankees slugger Mark Teixeira has joined the 400-home run club. The first baseman, who is switch-hitter, was in a hitting slump of 6 for his last 26 starting Sunday’s game against the San Diego Padres.
On the day, Teixeira was 0-3 with three Ks prior to hitting two home runs batting left-handed over his last two at bats helping the Yankees to move their record to within one game of .500 at 40-41.
Teixeira now has 401 home runs for his career becoming just the fifth player who bats from both sides to reach that plateau in the major leagues.
His 401st home run came in the ninth inning and immediately viewers knew this one was a round tripper. He flipped his bat after hitting the ball, which for Teixeira is a very rare display of emotion on the field.
The Yankees slugger was able to get both home run balls after the game as the fans tossed them out of the stands. He said the home runs were even more special to him because John, his father was attending the game. The two shared a big hug following the game in front of the Yankees clubhouse.
First on the list of all-time home runs for switch hitters is the former Yankees legend Mickey Mantle who hit 536.
Most Home Runs by Switch Hitters
- Mickey Mantle – 536
- Eddie Murray – 504
- Chipper Jones – 468
- Carlos Beltran – 411
- Mark Teixeira – 400
Teixeira said it was cool being connected to that group of switch hitters. He added that Mantle was a Yankees great and Eddie Murray, who is second on the list with 504, is the reason he is a switch hitter today.
Teixeira said while growing up he lived in Baltimore he watched Murray switch-hit. He also played one season with Atlanta’s former great Chipper Jones, who is No. 3 on the list with 468. He is now playing with Carlos Beltran who has 411 and reached the 400-home run club this season.
The Yankees slugger said that he felt his left-handed swing was the best it has felt the first half of the season, but admits he needs to work some on his right-handed swing.
