Bob Horner, Former Atlanta Braves Slugger and MLB All-Star, Dies at 68

Bob Horner, the esteemed former Atlanta Braves player, has passed away at the age of 68. The news of his death was shared by the Braves on social media on 26 May, where the club celebrated his legacy as a player who consistently “built a career out of being first”. Horner’s distinguished career left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball (MLB) as he achieved numerous remarkable milestones throughout his time on the field.

Born on 6 August 1957 in Kansas and raised in Arizona, Horner became a prominent player during his high school years at Apollo High School in Glendale. His impressive performance caught the attention of scouts, and he later moved on to Arizona State University, where he contributed significantly to the Sun Devils’ triumph in the 1977 College World Series.

In 1978, Horner made history when he became the first overall pick in the MLB Draft, initiated by the Atlanta Braves. Highlighting his exceptional talents, he was the first player to debut in Major League Baseball directly after being drafted, bypassing the minor leagues entirely. This unprecedented accomplishment set the tone for a career marked by numerous firsts. Just a year after his debut, he was named the National League Rookie of the Year for 1978, solidifying his status as one of baseball’s rising stars.

Horner’s tenure with the Braves included a standout moment in 1982 when he was selected as an MLB All-Star. He formed a formidable partnership with fellow slugger Dale Murphy, creating one of the most feared batting duos in the league. His power at the plate was exemplified when he became the first Braves player to hit four home runs in a single game, a record that showcased his remarkable talent and explosive hitting capability.

After dedicating nine seasons to the Braves, Horner ventured to Japan in 1987, joining the Yakult Swallows for a year. Upon his return to the United States in 1988, he signed with the St. Louis Cardinals. Unfortunately, his career was cut short the following season due to a shoulder injury, leading to his retirement from professional baseball. Throughout his major league journey, Horner achieved a commendable .277 batting average, alongside impressive statistics that included 218 home runs and 685 runs batted in.

In recognition of his contributions to baseball, Horner was inducted into the Sun Devil Athletics Hall of Fame in 1979, shortly after his collegiate success. Furthermore, his number 5 jersey was immortalised on the outfield wall at the team’s Phoenix Municipal Stadium, a testament to his enduring legacy with Arizona State. The Sun Devils expressed their sorrow upon his passing, stating that they are grieving for “one of the greatest to ever put on the Sun Devils uniform”.

Recognising his impact within college baseball, Horner was also among the inaugural inductees into the College Baseball Hall of Fame in 2006. Most recently, he entered the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 2022, highlighting his significant influence on the sport.

While a cause of death has yet to be disclosed, the Braves and Horner’s family confirmed that he is survived by his wife, Chris, and their two sons, Tyler and Trent. The organisation extended their condolences, honouring a player who not only made significant contributions to their franchise but also captured the admiration of fans and players alike throughout his career.

Bob Horner’s legacy as a pioneering player in Major League Baseball will be remembered, not just by the records he set, but also through the memories shared by those who witnessed his talent on the field. As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Horner’s impact on the game will resonate for many years to come.