Milestone Man


Two weeks from starting his 19th major league season, Albert Pujols has already passed 600 home runs and 3000 hits. And barring a serious injury, he'll pass another milestone this year: he's just 18 RBI short of 2000.

You might be surprised to realize how few players have driven in 2000 runs. Let's start with some iconic names who never got to Y2Krbi: Willie Mays, Ted Williams and Stan Musial. Lou Gehrig missed by just 5. Only four players in MLB's 150 year history, have joined the 2000 club: Hank Aaron, your all-time leader with 2297, Babe Ruth with 2214, Alex Rodriguez at 2086 and 19th century legend Cap Anson with 2075. That's it. No Willie (Mickey or the Duke). You need talent, luck and two decades worth of sustained health. And, to be candid, some other good teammates. All Hank's 755 home runs guaranteed him were 755 RBI. The other 1500 came from having Eddie Matthews, Red Schoendienst, Felipe Alou and countless others get on base before his time up.

Then, Albert Pujols, as with the other legends, had the knack for cashing in the opportunities. Want to circle a date when he might reach 2000? I'll take Friday May 17th at the Big A against the Royals.

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