Jim Rice's MVP Season (1978)

Lore & Background

Rice is one of two AL players ever to lead his league in triples and home runs in the same season. He also remains the only player to lead the major leagues in triples, home runs and RBIs in the same season. His 406 total bases that year is still a Red Sox record, and was the most in the AL since Joe DiMaggio had 418 in 1937. He was the first major leaguer with 400 or more total bases since Hank Aaron in 1959.

In Their Own Story

The late September sun beat down on Fenway Park, casting long shadows across the green grass as Jim Rice stepped into the batter's box. The crowd was a sea of red and navy, their chants rising like a tide against the noise of the Yankees' fans in town. He adjusted his batting gloves, eyes locked on the pitcher, feeling the familiar weight of the wood in his hands. With one swing, he sent a fastball soaring over the Green Monster, the ball disappearing into the night sky as thousands of voices roared in unison, celebrating another chapter in Spider's legendary season.

Reader's Guide

Rice's 1978 MVP season is a highlight of Red Sox history. He led the league in 11 categories, including home runs, RBI, hits, triples, total bases, and slugging percentage. His 406 total bases remain a Red Sox record and the third highest by an AL right-handed hitter, behind DiMaggio and Jimmie Foxx.

Did You Know?

• Rice is one of two AL players ever to lead his league in triples and home runs in the same season.
• He remains the only player to lead the major leagues in triples, home runs and RBIs in the same season.
• His 406 total bases in 1978 is still a Red Sox record and the most in the AL since Joe DiMaggio in 1937.