Braves to honor Aaron with commemorative '715' patch
Hall of Famer hit historic homer to break Ruth's record in Atlanta 40 years ago
ATLANTA -- The Braves will wear a commemorative "715" patch this season to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Hank Aaron breaking Major League Baseball's home run record.
Check out the new patch the #Braves will wear to commemorate the 40th anniversary of @HenryLouisAaron's 715th HR! pic.twitter.com/unZV1EgStj
- Atlanta Braves (@Braves) February 11, 2014This year's April 8 home opener, against the Mets, will provide fans a chance to welcome a new season and celebrate one of the most memorable events in baseball history. In 1974, across the street at the old Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, Aaron hit his historic 715th home run, breaking Babe Ruth's "unbreakable" record.
The home plate-shaped patch has a navy background and Aaron's autograph running across the number 715, which is red. The top of the patch is adorned with the words "40th Anniversary." The bottom features the feather that was on the Braves jerseys in 1974.
"We are delighted to honor Hank and recognize this momentous occasion," Braves president John Schuerholz said. "It was such an enormous milestone for him, for our team and for Major League Baseball, and we believe it deserves a season-long celebration."
Aaron will be honored during an on-field ceremony before the game.