Rogers Hornsby

Rogers Hornsby: The Rajah

Biography Summary

Rogers Hornsby, born April 27, 1896, in Winters, Texas, is widely regarded as one of the greatest hitters in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Known as “The Rajah,” Hornsby combined an extraordinary ability to hit for both average and power, setting records that have stood the test of time. Over a 23-season career (1915–1937), primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs, Hornsby established himself as an offensive juggernaut, leaving an indelible mark on baseball history.


Statistical Overview

Batting Stats (Career Totals)

  • Games Played: 2,259
  • At Bats: 8,173
  • Hits: 2,930
  • Doubles: 541
  • Triples: 169
  • Home Runs: 301
  • RBIs: 1,584
  • Runs Scored: 1,579
  • Stolen Bases: 135
  • Career Batting Average: .358 (2nd all-time as of 2025)
  • On-Base Percentage: .434
  • Slugging Percentage: .577

Career Highlights and Legacy

Teams Played For

  • St. Louis Cardinals (1915–1926, 1933)
  • New York Giants (1927)
  • Boston Braves (1928)
  • Chicago Cubs (1929–1932)
  • St. Louis Browns (1933–1937)

Notable Achievements

  • 2x National League MVP (1925, 1929)
  • 7x National League Batting Champion
  • Triple Crown Winner (1922, 1925)
  • MLB Career Batting Average of .358 (2nd all-time)
  • Hall of Fame Inductee (1942)
  • Managed St. Louis Cardinals to their first World Series title in 1926

Hornsby’s .424 batting average in 1924 remains the highest single-season mark in the modern era. His ability to combine power with precision at the plate made him one of the most feared hitters in baseball history.


Early Life and Career

Born in rural Texas, Hornsby grew up working on his family farm while playing baseball in his spare time. He signed with the St. Louis Cardinals as a 19-year-old in 1915 and quickly developed into one of the league’s top hitters. By the early 1920s, Hornsby had firmly established himself as a dominant offensive force.


Cardinals Stardom

Hornsby’s time with the Cardinals defined his career. From 1920 to 1925, he led the league in batting average every season, averaging .402 over that span. His 1922 season, in which he won the Triple Crown with a .401 average, 42 home runs, and 152 RBIs, is regarded as one of the greatest individual campaigns in MLB history. In 1926, as a player-manager, Hornsby led the Cardinals to their first World Series title.


Later Years and Impact

After leaving the Cardinals, Hornsby continued to produce offensively with teams like the Chicago Cubs and Boston Braves. Despite injuries and managerial stints that impacted his playing time, Hornsby remained a formidable hitter. His .387 batting average with the Cubs in 1929 earned him his second MVP award. He transitioned to full-time managing in his later years, influencing the game from the dugout.


Retirement and Legacy

Hornsby retired in 1937, leaving behind a legacy of unmatched offensive production. His career .358 batting average is second only to Ty Cobb, and his seven batting titles remain among the most in MLB history. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1942, Hornsby is remembered as a relentless competitor and one of the greatest right-handed hitters to ever play the game.


Cultural Impact

Hornsby’s achievements set a standard for offensive excellence, and his dedication to the craft of hitting became legendary. Known for his strict focus on baseball—eschewing distractions like drinking and nightlife—Hornsby exemplified discipline and commitment. His influence on generations of hitters remains profound.


Fun Facts

  • Hornsby is the only player to hit over .400 three times in the modern era (1922, 1924, 1925).
  • He led the National League in batting average seven times, home runs twice, and RBIs four times.
  • Hornsby famously refused to watch movies, believing they would hurt his eyesight and, in turn, his hitting.
  • He is one of the few player-managers to win a World Series.

Final Note

Rogers Hornsby’s unparalleled offensive achievements and relentless dedication to the game make him one of baseball’s all-time greats. “The Rajah” remains a symbol of excellence at the plate, inspiring hitters to strive for greatness and leaving a legacy that endures in baseball history.