Roberto Clemente's 3000th Hit
Clemente's last hit of his final MLB career still resonates as one of his most memorable achievements.
3000th Hit - Alt (1972-09-30) by Les BanosThe Clemente Museum
On September 30, 1972 , Roberto Clemente hit his career milestone 3000 hit in Three Rivers Stadium. Sadly, this would be the last MLB hit the legendary player would have.
Before the Hit - Crop (1972-09-30) by Les BanosThe Clemente Museum
The previous night, Clemente had attempted the exact thing that he had achieved on the September 30th game. Facing Met's pitcher Tom Seaver, Clemente's hit looked the part and the scoreboard was lit up with the victorious "3000". In the end though the hit was ruled an error.
3000th Hit - Crop (1972-09-30) by Les BanosThe Clemente Museum
The following day Clemente and the Pirates again faced the New York Mets on the field of Three Rivers Stadium for the second of three games. 1972 National League Rookie of the Year Jon Matlack threw the pitch that Clemente would eventually connect with during the 4th inning.
The Hit (1972-09-30)The Clemente Museum
Striking out for the first pitch Clemente connected with the second, hitting a drive into the gap in left-center field, and made his way to second base under the cheers of a celebratory crowd.
Tipping the Cap - Front (1972-09-30) by Les BanosThe Clemente Museum
After being given the 3000th ball by second base umpire Doug Harvey Roberto Clemente took a moment to raise his cap to the fans, still cheering for his achievement. This moment would turn into one of the most iconic photographs taken during Clemente's career.
Tipping the Cap - Back (1972-09-30)The Clemente Museum
Additionally, during his jog to right field at the start of the 5th inning, Clemente took another opportunity to celebrate the moment with his fans by tipping his cap again.
Showing 3000th Hit Ball (1972-09-30)The Clemente Museum
After the game had completed Clemente was mobbed by reporters looking for the story as well as players offering congratulations. But the often humble Roberto Clemente only took the time to thank the fans and friends that had supported him through his career.
Showing the Bat - Crop (1972-09-30)The Clemente Museum
“I dedicate this hit to the fans of Pittsburgh. They have been wonderful. And to the people back home in Puerto Rico, but especially to the fellow who pushed me to play baseball. Roberto Marin.”
Scoreboard (1972-09-30) by Les BanosThe Clemente Museum
Roberto Clemente reached 3000th hits during his last at-bat of the 1972 Pirates season, a true milestone for for any Major League player. This, sadly, would be his last achievement as a Pittsburgh Pirate.
Tipping the Cap - Back (1972-09-30)The Clemente Museum
On December 31st, 1972 Clemente lost his life when the cargo plane that he charted to deliver relief supplies to Nicaragua went down in the ocean off the coast of Puerto Rico. Though he is lauded for his success as an athlete, Clemente's legacy was truly that of a humanitarian.
