Celebrating 100 Years of Baseball History
St. Petersburg is set to honor baseball legend Babe Ruth with a towering 9-foot, 2-inch statue in North Shore Park. The tribute marks 100 years since Ruth first arrived in the city for spring training with the New York Yankees in 1925.
A Legendary Tribute
The statue, titled “Babe Calls the Shot,” is the work of Plant City artist Blake Emory. It depicts Ruth’s legendary moment from the 1932 World Series, where he famously pointed to the outfield before launching a home run at Wrigley Field. The unveiling will take place on Saturday, Feb. 8, during a special event at North Shore Park, 901 North Shore Drive N.E., St. Petersburg.
Honoring the Sultan of Swat
Babe Ruth first came to St. Petersburg in 1925, when the Yankees used Crescent Lake Field, now known as Huggins-Stengel Field, for spring training. He continued to train in the city until 1935, when he ended his career with the Boston Braves, another team that held spring training in St. Petersburg.
Grandson to Throw First Pitch
Adding to the festivities, Tom Stevens, Babe Ruth’s grandson, will throw the ceremonial first pitch at the Kids and Kubs Annual Mayor’s Game. This event celebrates the city’s deep baseball roots and its connection to one of the sport’s greatest icons.
A Lasting Legacy
Babe Ruth left a permanent mark on baseball and the city of St. Petersburg. His time in Florida helped establish the region as a key location for spring training. Now, a century later, his influence continues to be felt, and the new statue ensures his legacy remains for generations to come.
Visit North Shore Park on Feb. 8 to witness history and pay tribute to one of baseball’s greatest legends.
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