Babe Ruth League Alumnus Frank Thomas Inducted into MLB Hall of Fame Frank Thomas, a graduate of the Columbus, Georgia Babe Ruth League, was part of the 2014 Major League Baseball Hall of Fame Class. Thomas spent 19 years in the majors as one of the most feared hitters in the league. He spent 16 years as the first baseman and designated hitter for the Chicago White Sox before heading to the Oakland A’s and Toronto Blue Jays. Broadcaster Ken Harrelson nicknamed Thomas “The Big Hurt” during the 1992 season. Thomas was known for his menacing home run power; he routinely swung a rusted piece of rebar that he reportedly found during a renovation project in Old Comiskey Park in the on-deck circle. His baseball accomplishments were many, including five straight all-star game appearances, two MVP awards and some of the most impress numbers in Major League Baseball. Thomas is the only player to go seven consecutive seasons with 20+ homeruns, 100+ RBIs, 100+ walks and a .300+ batting average. During the official induction, Thomas choked back the tears. “I’m speechless. Thanks for having me in your club,” Thomas said, getting emotional as he remembered his late father. “Frank, Sr., I know you’re watching. Without you, I know 100 percent I wouldn’t be here in Cooperstown today. You always preached to me, ‘You can be someone special if you really work at it.’ I took that to heart, Pop.” “Mom, I thank you for all the motherly love and support. I know it wasn’t easy.” Thomas also offered his appreciation to those who helped him along the way, which included 138 people—from his family to his friends to key members of the White Sox, A’s and Blue Jays organizations. .