Jim Thome recalls Hall-of-Fame moments with Hank Aaron originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
As the baseball world mourned the death of Hank Aaron on Friday, another one of the game's all-time home-run heroes offered his own remembrance.
Former White Sox slugger Jim Thome, who stands alongside Aaron as one of nine players to ever hit 600 home runs, shared a statement.
"One of my most cherished memories is the day I had the honor of taking a phone call from the great Henry Aaron congratulating me on my Hall-of-Fame induction," Thome said in the statement. "He was a hero, both on and off the field, and he encompassed everything that is good and pure about the game of baseball.
"Escorting him to his seat at the 2019 induction ceremony was one of the great honors of my lifetime.
"Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Billye, their children and all who loved him. Rest in power, Hammerin' Hank."
RELATED: Frank Thomas remembers fellow Hall of Famer Hank Aaron
Another Hall of Famer, writer Jayson Stark of The Athletic, described the moment when Thome helped Aaron get to his seat two summers ago in Cooperstown.
Today, Aaron ranks second on baseball's all-time home-run list, with 755 career long balls. Thome ranks eighth, with 612.
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