Episode description

Going in to the 1961 season, the single-season record for home runs was 60, held by Babe Ruth. Leaving the 1961 season, that record was earned by Roger Maris and his 61 Bronx Bombs. Except some argued that 1961's longer season meant it shouldn't be seen as a record.

Baseball Commisioner Ford Frick announced that the record was for 154 games, not 162, so it should be shown seperately with a distinctive mark, such as an asterisk. Let's be clear, that's a load of baloney. This record stood in the American League until Aaron Judge's 2022 season, clearly showing just how legendary Maris' mark was.

There was never an asterisk. Roger Maris was the record holder with 61 home runs. Let's listen to one of them, as the New York Yankees play their 151st game at the Detroit Tigers. 

Phil Rizzuto and  Mel Allen are behind the microphones.

You can find the boxscore here.

https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/DET/DET196109170.shtml

This game was played on September 17th, 1961.