Bob Horner, a distinguished former infielder for both the Atlanta Braves and the St. Louis Cardinals, has passed away at the age of 68. Horner’s career was highlighted by significant achievements, including being named the National League Rookie of the Year in 1978. He is also remembered for a remarkable game in which he hit four home runs, a feat that cemented his place in baseball history. His passing marks the end of an era for fans of both franchises and the sport of baseball as a whole.
Born on November 12, 1954, Robert “Bob” Lee Horner quickly established himself as a promising talent in professional baseball. He made his Major League Baseball debut with the Atlanta Braves on September 5, 1976. His rookie season in 1978 was nothing short of spectacular. He batted .314 with 23 home runs and 60 RBIs, earning him the coveted NL Rookie of the Year award. This recognition underscored his immediate impact and predicted a bright future in the league.
Horner played with the Braves for the majority of his career, from 1976 to 1986. During his tenure in Atlanta, he became a fan favorite, known for his powerful bat and consistent performance. He was a three-time MLB All-Star (1978, 1980, 1982) and a two-time Silver Slugger Award winner (1980, 1981). His offensive prowess made him one of the most feared hitters in the league during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
One of Horner’s most memorable performances occurred on July 18, 1986, while playing for the St. Louis Cardinals. In a game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Horner achieved a rare and incredible feat by hitting four home runs. This accomplishment places him in an exclusive club of players who have managed to hit four home runs in a single Major League game. This performance is etched in the memories of baseball enthusiasts and serves as a testament to his exceptional hitting ability.
After his time with the Braves, Horner was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals in 1986, where he played for the remainder of that season before concluding his MLB career. While his time in St. Louis was brief, his impactful four-homer game ensured his place in Cardinals lore as well. Following his MLB career, Horner played in Japan for the Yakult Swallows in 1988, further showcasing his dedication to the sport.
Bob Horner’s legacy extends beyond his impressive statistics and awards. He is remembered for his passion for the game and his contributions to the sport during a significant period in baseball history. His ability to perform at a high level and deliver memorable moments like the four-homer game solidified his status as a notable figure in MLB. The news of his death has been met with widespread sadness and tributes from former teammates, fellow players, and fans across the baseball community.
Sources: @espn @wsbtv
Scanner News STL: Sports Death: Former Atlanta Braves and St. Louis Cardinals infielder Bob Horner, who won the NL Rookie of the Year Award in 1978 and once hit four homers in one game, has died today at age 68. Sources: @espn @wsbtv. #breaking
— @ScannerNewsSTL May 1, 2026
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