Written By Home runs are a celebrated event in baseball. They are the moments that can turn a game around, energize a team and their fans, and create unforgettable memories. But it’s not just the home run itself that’s exciting – it’s the celebration that follows. Every player has their own unique way of celebrating, from the classic bat flip to the choreographed team dance. Here’s a look at some of the most entertaining home run celebrations in Major League Baseball:
- Fernando Tatis Jr.’s “swag chain” Fernando Tatis Jr., the San Diego Padres shortstop, has taken the league by storm with his incredible talent and infectious personality. After hitting a home run, Tatis dons a gold chain with a large “swag” pendant and struts around the bases, reveling in his success. The “swag chain” has become a symbol of Tatis’ confidence and swagger on the field.
- Javier Baez’s “El Mago” magic trick Javier Baez, the Chicago Cubs infielder, is known for his slick fielding and clutch hitting. But it’s his home run celebrations that have really captured the attention of fans. After hitting a homer, Baez pretends to pull a rabbit out of a hat, a nod to his “El Mago” nickname, which means “The Magician” in Spanish.
- Tim Anderson’s bat flip Tim Anderson, the Chicago White Sox shortstop, has perfected the art of the bat flip. After hitting a home run, Anderson flings his bat into the air with a flourish, sometimes adding a little extra spin for good measure. It’s a move that’s earned him both praise and criticism, but it’s undeniably entertaining.
- Ronald Acuna Jr.’s home run trot Ronald Acuna Jr., the Atlanta Braves outfielder, has one of the most fun-loving personalities in baseball. His home run celebrations reflect that, as he jogs around the bases with a big smile on his face, often pausing to point to the sky or pump his fist in the air.
- Nelson Cruz’s “boomstick” Nelson Cruz, the Minnesota Twins designated hitter, has a habit of carrying a large wooden bat with “boomstick” written on it. After hitting a home run, Cruz holds the bat up triumphantly and gestures to the crowd, who respond with cheers and applause.
- Yasiel Puig’s tongue wag Yasiel Puig, the former Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder, was known for his energy and enthusiasm on the field. After hitting a home run, Puig would often stick out his tongue and wag it back and forth, a move that quickly became his trademark.
- Anthony Rizzo’s “Dinger Helmet” Anthony Rizzo, the Chicago Cubs first baseman, has a special helmet that he wears after hitting a home run. The helmet has a large “Dinger” logo on it, and Rizzo often plays it up for the cameras, making sure everyone gets a good look at his unique headgear.
- The Miami Marlins’ “Cuban Sandwich” The Miami Marlins have a team celebration that’s unlike any other. After a player hits a home run, his teammates gather around home plate and pretend to make a “Cuban sandwich,” with the batter as the meat and the teammates as the bread. It’s a goofy and lighthearted celebration that never fails to bring a smile to fans’ faces.
- Hunter Pence’s “Let’s Go Crazy” dance Hunter Pence, the former San Francisco Giants outfielder, has a signature dance that he busts out after hitting a home run.
