Who stole home the most in MLB history?

By Oliver Wiener May 01, 2024 20:37

Photo by Bettman/Getty Images

In the rich history of Major League Baseball (MLB), stealing home base has always been an electrifying and rare feat.

Courtesy of Fan Arch, this article looks back into the players who have achieved the most stolen home bases in MLB history, their techniques, records, and notable anecdotes. It also includes relevant statistics, historical context, and other pertinent information to provide a comprehensive understanding of this intriguing aspect of baseball.

Historical Context of Stealing Home Base

Stolen bases, a thrilling aspect of baseball, were not officially noted in a baseball game's summary until 1886. It was not until 1888 that it officially earned a place in baseball's box score. The modern rule for stolen bases was adopted in 1898.

Although some sources do not include stolen base records before 1898 due to difficulties in comparison, Major League Baseball continues to recognize them.

Stealing home plate is NOT an officially recorded statistic, so research into this unusual baserunning feat is still considered ongoing.

Notable Stolen Home Base Records

Players with the Most Steals of Home in MLB History

Ty Cobb: A legendary figure in baseball, Ty Cobb holds the record for the most steals of home in a career with an astounding 54. His exceptional speed and base-running prowess made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. Cobb's career steals of home remain unmatched in MLB history, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.
Max Carey: Another remarkable player, Max Carey achieved 33 steals of home in his career, showcasing his exceptional baserunning skills. His agility and quick decision-making on the base paths allowed him to secure a significant number of steals of home, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the game.

Techniques and Anecdotes

Stealing home base is a daring and strategic maneuver that requires exceptional speed, agility, and timing. It often involves a calculated risk, as the catcher and pitcher work in tandem to prevent such a play.

Players who successfully stole home displayed remarkable speed and instinct, often catching the defense off guard.

Notably, the last National League player to steal second, then third, then home plate during the same inning was Elly De La Cruz of the Cincinnati Reds on July 8, 2023.

In the American League, the last player to achieve this feat was Mallex Smith of the Seattle Mariners on May 27, 2019. These instances highlight the rarity and excitement surrounding stealing home base in modern baseball.

Insights from Career Stolen Bases Leaders

Several players have left an indelible mark on MLB history with their exceptional baserunning abilities.

Rickey Henderson, the all-time stolen bases leader, remains unparalleled with an incredible 1,406 stolen bases over the course of his 25-year career. Lou Brock, Billy Hamilton, and Ty Cobb also occupy top positions in the career stolen bases list, showcasing their enduring impact on the game.

In summary, stealing home base stands as a captivating and rare aspect of baseball, steeped in rich history and remarkable achievements.

Players like Ty Cobb and Max Carey have etched their names in MLB lore with their exceptional steals of home, showcasing the thrill and excitement of this daring baserunning maneuver.