Kansas City Royals History: George Brett Records 3000th Hit

Feb 23, 2016; Surprise, AZ, USA; Former Kansas City Royals player George Brett looks on during a workout at Surprise Stadium Practice Fields. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 23, 2016; Surprise, AZ, USA; Former Kansas City Royals player George Brett looks on during a workout at Surprise Stadium Practice Fields. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

George Brett was easily the greatest player in Kansas City Royals history. On this day in 1992, he notched his 3000th career hit, and was then embarrassed on the basepaths.

Reaching the 3000 hit club in a Major League career is quite the accomplishment. Only 30 players have reached this milestone, and at the time Kansas City Royals legend George Brett was approaching that mark, 17 players had reached that mark. On this day in 1992, Brett became the 18th member of the club.

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Although Brett was no longer the hitter he had been in his younger days, he still had moments where he could turn back the clock. That happened on this day, as he went 4-5 with a double and a run scored. In that fifth at bat, Brett reached on an error, as Ken Oberkfell was unable to make a play on his ground ball.

That milestone hit also involved Oberkfell. With Tim Fortugno on the mound, Brett rifled a one hopper at the second baseman, who was unable to make a play as the ball flew over his shoulder into right. Brett had his 3000th hit, cementing his place in MLB history.

Considering that the moment came in front of Brett’s family, including his brother Ken Brett, who had a 14 year career and was George’s teammate in 1980 and 1981, it was even more special. The sure fire Hall of Famer had gotten his milestone hit, and in another lost season for the Royals, there was reason to celebrate.

Unfortunately, Brett did not get to enjoy his moment for too long. After getting Gregg Jefferies to fly out, Fortugno picked Brett off of first base with ease, ending the inning and leaving the legend in dismay at his own gaffe. At least he got to bask in the glory of his hit before getting picked off.

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On this day in 1992, George Brett furthered his legacy as the greatest player in Kansas City Royals history, notching his 3000th career hit. Let us just forget about what happened a few minutes later.