| Thome Provides Burst for White Sox |
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Written by Benny Spicer (Contact & Archive) on September 25, 2007
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Jim Thome is now a part of an elite portion of Major League Baseball. Thome is now an official member of the 500 home run club, an accomplishment many players can only dream of. But Jim has reached it, clubbing his 500th against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim bullpen and leaving the yard in dramatic fashion, a walk-off home run which was indeed his 500th. Thome did it during a home game, and not only did one swing of the bat win the game, but it also called for major celebration. As he rounded the bases, Thome looked at his teammates with a grin of triumph, but also made a gesture towards the sky. This gesture was in honor of Thome's mother, who passed away in 2005. But if it wasn't for such hot hitting Thome would have needed to wait until next season to reach the milestone. Check out the numbers- Thome has hit five home runs in his last 10 games! This is a hitter whose name kept coming up on everyone's "Cold Batters" list, and he sure has grown warmer during this month of September. In a season that has already seen a handful of milestones, Thome's might be one of the most heartwarming of them all. Thome has become an icon at U.S. Cellular Field, and one that White Sox fans have enjoyed cheering on and rooting for. The White Sox had been experiencing an increasing dynasty decline since the 2005 World Series, but Thome has brought some experienced hope. A veteran ray of hope that has overshadowed his counterparts. Thome's career has seen several stints on the disabled list, even though he has still been a consistent part of the lineup. Normally batting at the heart of the order, Thome has always delivered in the cleanup spot. On his career, he has of course that astounding mark of 500 home runs, but also has 1,387 runs batted in and a .281 career batting average. So Jim can definitely swing a brutal bat. Thome successfully gave fans a surprising treat, making their promotion at the ballpark more worthwhile. That promotion, you may ask? Well, it was Jim Thome bobblehead day at U.S. Cellular Field, and Thome gave the fans another treat. Plus, there is no better way to end a game with a walk-off home run, especially when it means having a meeting with a milestone. This date with destiny might have distinguished Thome from his hall of fame class when he becomes eligible, as he has posted some amazing numbers in a three team career with Chicago, Cleveland and Philadelphia. Known mostly for his insane power hitting and incredible plate discipline with runners in scoring position, Thome has even been awarded for something some might not think of, kindness. Thome's courtesy and giving nature has made him a fan favorite, and the fans and Chicago love to see Thome play. If you've seen the highlight, you know what I'm talking about. After the home run, the ballpark erupted in an almost deafening roar of happiness and excitement. The anxious and almost impatient fans have been rewarded, and what a year for baseball it has been. So congratulations to Jim Thome, who has reached that milestone. Congratulations to Thome on making the 500 home run club, and congratulations to Thome for being such a beloved athlete. Thome has given these White Sox fans something great to cheer for, and the call was answered at exactly the right time: September. With little games remaining, this emotion could carry on into next season. Thome and the White Sox sure hope so.
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