Matt Williams Home Run Record
The Block went deep at third base in the Diamondbacks' inaugural seasons, and no one's touched that power record since.
Matt Williams — 'The Block' — is still the Arizona Diamondbacks all-time home run leader at third base, and that record was set in the franchise's first couple of seasons. He wasn't around as long as some of their newer stars, but in those early expansion years he showed up a right-handed slugger planted at a spot where most guys just ran fields and turned doubles. Arizona needed power wherever they could grab it, and Williams just started whacking them, turning third base from a glove-first job into a real long-ball threat from the very first spring.
- Role
- Third Baseman / Shortstop
- Team Affiliation
- Arizona Diamondbacks (1998–2000)
- Franchise Record
- Most Home Runs by a Third Baseman in Franchise History
- Status
- Retired Legend
- Key Era
- Inaugural Seasons
Lore & Background
Williams played only three seasons in Arizona before moving on to the New York Mets, yet he left an indelible mark. He became the first player to hit over 20 home runs in each of his first two years with the franchise. His presence at third base was a rare sight; typically, teams prioritize defense or speed there, but Williams proved that a big bat could anchor the infield. Even after his departure, the shadow he cast remained long, as no Diamondbacks third baseman has ever surpassed his power numbers.
In Their Own Story
The air in Chase Field was thick with humidity and anticipation during a late summer night in 1998. Matt Williams stepped into the batter's box, adjusting his batting gloves with practiced ease. The pitcher wound up, delivering a fastball that hung just a fraction too long over the plate. With a deafening crack that echoed off the stadium walls, Williams launched the ball deep into the left-field stands. He trotted around the bases, the crowd roaring for 'The Block,' cementing another moment in the early history of Arizona baseball.
Reader's Guide
Matt Williams' primary achievement with the Diamondbacks is holding the franchise record for most home runs by a shortstop. This title was earned through his sheer power output during the team's first three seasons, where he consistently delivered extra-base hits that fueled the lineup.
His significance in MLB history extends beyond Arizona; he was one of the few players to hit 40+ home runs from the shortstop position multiple times in a career. For the Diamondbacks, his record stands as a testament to the 'small ball' era transitioning into a power-centric approach that defined the late 90s.
Williams also holds the distinction of being an integral part of the Diamondbacks' first-ever playoff appearance in their second year of existence. His ability to drive in runs was crucial during those early postseason pushes, setting a high bar for future infielders who would follow in his cleats.
Did You Know?
- Matt Williams is one of only two players in MLB history to hit over 40 home runs from the third base position more than once.
- He was part of the Diamondbacks' inaugural roster in 1998, helping establish the team's identity immediately upon launch.
- Despite playing only three seasons in Arizona, his home run total at third base remains untouchable by any other player in franchise history.
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