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Transitioning to third base in the minors, Thome learned the nuances of the game from mentor Charlie Manuel, who would later manage him in the majors. His iconic batting posture, inspired by Roy Hobbs from The Natural, became a signature aspect of his hitting mechanics.
Thome made his MLB debut on September 4, 1991, starting what would become an illustrious career.
Rise to Prominence with the Indians
Thome spent several years fluctuating between the majors and the minors, establishing himself gradually. By 1994, he had solidified his place on the roster, batting .304 with 18 home runs and 43 RBIs. An especially memorable moment during that season was when he hit his first walk-off home run.