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Mark McGwire

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description Mark McGwire Overview

Mark McGwire is a former American professional baseball first baseman who played primarily for the Oakland Athletics and the St. Louis Cardinals in Major League Baseball. He gained international prominence during the 1998 season when he hit 70 home runs, breaking the long-standing single-season record previously held by Roger Maris. However, his career accomplishments were heavily overshadowed when he later publicly admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.

Following his retirement as a player, McGwire transitioned into coaching, serving as a hitting coach for several MLB teams.

help Mark McGwire FAQ

What Major League Baseball record did Mark McGwire set in 1998?

The first baseman set the single-season home run record by hitting 70 home runs. This historic feat captivated the sports world and revitalized the popularity of Major League Baseball.

Whose home run record did Mark McGwire surpass in 1998?

McGwire surpassed Roger Maris's long-standing single-season record of 61 home runs, which was set in 1961. The intense media chase between McGwire and Sammy Sosa to break Maris's record lasted all summer.

Did Mark McGwire admit to using performance-enhancing drugs?

Yes, the slugger later publicly admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs during his career, including his record-breaking 1998 season. This admission significantly tarnished his legacy and kept him out of the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Which MLB team did Mark McGwire primarily play for when he broke the record?

While he started his career and hit many home runs for the Oakland Athletics, McGwire was playing for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1998. He was traded to St. Louis midway through his career, where he achieved his legendary status.