Cal Ripken Jr
Cal Ripken Jr., whose full name is Calvin Edwin Ripken Jr., is a former professional baseball player who is widely regarded as one of the greatest shortstops and third basemen in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. He spent his entire 21-year MLB career (1981-2001) with the Baltimore Orioles.
Here are some key points about Cal Ripken Jr.:
Iron Man: Ripken earned the nickname "Iron Man" for his incredible durability and consecutive games played streak. He broke Lou Gehrig's longstanding record of 2,130 consecutive games played on September 6, 1995, ultimately extending it to 2,632 games. His durability and consistency became synonymous with his career.
Two-time American League Most Valuable Player (MVP): Ripken won the AL MVP award in 1983 and 1991. He was the backbone of the Orioles during these seasons, displaying exceptional hitting, fielding, and leadership skills.
World Series Champion: Ripken won the World Series with the Orioles in 1983, contributing significantly to their championship run with his outstanding performance both at the plate and in the field.
19-time All-Star: Ripken was selected to the All-Star Game 19 times throughout his career. His selection was a testament to his consistent excellence and widespread recognition as one of the league's top players.
Gold Glove Awards: Ripken was an exceptional defensive player, earning 16 Gold Glove Awards at shortstop and third base. His fielding prowess and strong arm made him a formidable force on the field.
Offensive Achievements: Ripken was known for his power hitting and ability to drive in runs. He finished his career with 3,184 hits, 431 home runs, and 1,695 runs batted in. He also had a career batting average of .276.
Hall of Fame Inductee: In 2007, Cal Ripken Jr. was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. His impact on the game and his iconic consecutive games streak solidified his place among the game's immortals.
Off the field, Ripken has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors and has made significant contributions to the sport through his coaching, youth baseball initiatives, and broadcasting work. He continues to be a respected figure in the baseball community and a beloved icon in Baltimore.
Cal Ripken Bio
Cal Breaks Lou Gherig Record
The story of Cal Ripken Jr. breaking Lou Gehrig's consecutive games played record is a significant moment in baseball history. Here's a summary of the events leading up to and during Ripken's historic achievement:
Cal Ripken Jr. began his consecutive games played streak on May 30, 1982. As the years passed, Ripken's streak grew longer and gained attention from fans and the media. It became a symbol of his dedication, durability, and love for the game.
The record Ripken aimed to break was set by Lou Gehrig, a legendary player for the New York Yankees, who played in 2,130 consecutive games from 1925 to 1939. Gehrig's record was considered unbreakable and a testament to his exceptional endurance.
On September 5, 1995, the Baltimore Orioles were scheduled to play the California Angels in a game held at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Ripken's consecutive games played count stood at 2,130, tying Gehrig's record. The anticipation and excitement surrounding the game were immense.
In a dramatic and memorable moment, Ripken took to the field as the starting shortstop, ready to break Gehrig's record. The atmosphere was electric, with a sold-out crowd and millions of fans watching on television.
In the bottom of the fourth inning, Ripken came up to bat against Angels pitcher Shawn Boskie. On a 2-1 pitch, Ripken hit a line drive to left field, securing his place in history. The game was briefly halted to celebrate Ripken's achievement, with the crowd giving him a standing ovation that lasted over 20 minutes.
Ripken continued to play in an additional 501 games, extending his consecutive games played streak to an astonishing 2,632. He voluntarily ended the streak on September 20, 1998, to allow his body some rest and avoid overshadowing the team's goals.
Cal Ripken Jr.'s breaking of Lou Gehrig's consecutive games played record was a defining moment in baseball. It showcased Ripken's unparalleled work ethic, durability, and love for the game. The record-breaking achievement cemented Ripken's legacy as one of the game's greats and earned him the nickname "Iron Man."
Cal Ripken All Star Games