[cinFLA]

All the stars alligned that year. Kind of like Roger Maris who never hit more than 39 HRs until 1961,

Sort of forgetting how they put him 3rd ahead of Mantle ....

[Grando Calrissian]

Similar to putting Bonds between Aurilia and Kent.

[Chu Gary]

"All the stars alligned that year. Kind of like Roger Maris who never hit more than 39 HRs until 1961,

Sort of forgetting how they put him 3rd ahead of Mantle ...."

You're right. In addition, 1961 was the first year of the expanded schedule, going from 154 to 162 games during the regular season. Also, the Mick's season ended before the 154th game (injury). Without Mickey to protect him, Roger Maris didn't hit his 61st until sometime during the "extra games," hence the asterisk.