Top 10 Greatest Home Runs in MLB History: Iconic Moments That Shaped Baseball

The greatest home runs in MLB history stand out not only for their power and distance, but for their unforgettable impact on the game and its fans. From World Series walk-offs to dramatic regular season blasts, these moments continue to define baseball’s legacy.

Each home run on this list was significant for its timing, pressure, or the record it set. Players, teams, and stadiums became etched in the minds of fans because of these remarkable swings.

This article highlights the top 10 home runs that left a lasting mark on Major League Baseball, offering a look at why each stands above thousands of others hit over the decades.

Top 10 Greatest Home Runs in MLB History

Each home run listed stands out due to its historical impact, timing, and the circumstances under which it was hit. These moments showcase the drama, excitement, and significance of power hitting in Major League Baseball.

Bobby Thomson's 'Shot Heard 'Round the World' (1951)

On October 3, 1951, Bobby Thomson hit one of the most famous home runs in baseball history for the New York Giants. His dramatic three-run shot in the bottom of the ninth inning won the National League pennant over the Brooklyn Dodgers.

This moment became legendary for its high stakes and the way it capped off a remarkable Giants comeback. The game is often remembered for Russ Hodges’ call, “The Giants win the pennant!” It remains a defining moment for New York baseball and postseason drama.

Kirk Gibson's 1988 World Series Walk-Off

In Game 1 of the 1988 World Series, Kirk Gibson of the Los Angeles Dodgers hit a walk-off home run against Dennis Eckersley of the Oakland Athletics. Gibson was severely hobbled by injuries and was not expected to play.

His pinch-hit homer came with two outs in the bottom of the ninth, turning what seemed like an Oakland victory into a Dodgers win. Gibson's visible pain and memorable fist-pump around the bases added to the scene’s significance. The home run set the tone for the Dodgers' eventual Series victory.

Bill Mazeroski's 1960 World Series Game 7 Homer

Bill Mazeroski’s home run in the bottom of the ninth inning of Game 7 clinched the 1960 World Series for the Pittsburgh Pirates over the New York Yankees. It remains the only Game 7 walk-off homer in World Series history.

Mazeroski’s blast lifted the underdog Pirates and marked one of the most dramatic finishes in baseball. The home run is commemorated in Pittsburgh with a statue, and it symbolizes a rare moment of pure finality in a championship game.

Joe Carter’s 1993 World Series Clincher

Joe Carter ended the 1993 World Series with a three-run homer in Game 6, giving the Toronto Blue Jays their second straight title. The home run came off Phillies closer Mitch Williams with the Blue Jays trailing by a run.

Carter’s reaction, leaping around the bases, underscored the moment’s significance as only the second walk-off home run to clinch a World Series. The shot remains a defining moment for Blue Jays fans and one of the most memorable endings to a postseason series.

Hank Aaron Breaks Babe Ruth’s Home Run Record (715th Home Run)

On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron hit his 715th home run, surpassing Babe Ruth’s long-standing career record. Aaron’s home run off Al Downing of the Los Angeles Dodgers at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium was a landmark moment in sports history.

Facing immense pressure and racism throughout his pursuit of the record, Aaron’s accomplishment resonated beyond baseball. The crowd’s reaction and the two fans running alongside him underscored the cultural significance of this achievement.

Reggie Jackson’s Three Home Runs in the 1977 World Series

Reggie Jackson hit three home runs on three consecutive pitches in Game 6 of the 1977 World Series for the New York Yankees. His power display helped the Yankees clinch the title over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Jackson’s performance earned him the nickname “Mr. October.” Each home run came off a different pitcher, further emphasizing the feat. His barrage is still one of the greatest single-game postseason performances in MLB history.

Carlton Fisk Waves It Fair (1975 World Series Game 6)

In the twelfth inning of Game 6 of the 1975 World Series, Carlton Fisk hit a dramatic, game-winning home run for the Boston Red Sox. His reaction, waving the ball fair as he ran down the first-base line, became iconic.

Fisk’s homer forced a Game 7 and is remembered for both its drama and televised impact, as viewers witnessed Fisk’s body language urging the ball to stay fair. The moment helped popularize new camera angles and remains a staple of World Series highlights.

David Ortiz’s 2004 ALCS Game 4 Walk-Off

David Ortiz hit a walk-off two-run home run in the bottom of the twelfth inning of Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS, keeping the Boston Red Sox alive against the New York Yankees. The Red Sox were facing elimination, down three games to none.

Ortiz’s shot sparked one of the greatest comebacks in sports history, as Boston went on to win the Series after being down 0-3. His clutch hitting in that series earned him ALCS MVP honors, solidifying his reputation as a postseason hero.

Aaron Boone’s Walk-Off in the 2003 ALCS

Aaron Boone delivered a walk-off home run in the eleventh inning of Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS, sending the New York Yankees to the World Series over the Boston Red Sox. Boone’s first-pitch shot off Tim Wakefield ended a tense and emotional series.

The home run added another chapter to the Yankees–Red Sox rivalry and secured Boone’s place in postseason lore. For many fans, the moment is remembered for its dramatic timing and the impact it had on the rivalry’s narrative.

Barry Bonds Sets Single-Season Record (73rd Home Run)

On October 7, 2001, Barry Bonds hit his 73rd home run, setting a new MLB single-season home run record. The record-breaking homer came off Dodgers pitcher Dennis Springer in San Francisco’s Pacific Bell Park.

Bonds’ pursuit of the record was a major story throughout 2001. His achievement drew both acclaim and controversy, as the era became associated with performance-enhancing drug use. The numeric record remains intact, representing both achievement and debate within the era’s context.