Cal Ripken Jr.
The Iron Man of Baseball
via Wikipedia: Cal Ripken Sr. · see source
Calvin Edwin Ripken Jr. (born August 24, 1960), nicknamed "the Iron Man", is an American former professional baseball shortstop and third baseman who played his entire 21-season career in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Baltimore Orioles (1981–2001). He compiled 3,184 hits, 431 home runs, 1,695 runs batted in, and won two Gold Glove Awards. He was a 19-time All-Star and twice named American League Most Valuable Player (1983 and 1991).
Quick Facts
- Position
- Shortstop; Third baseman
- Bats
- Right
- Born
- 24 August 1960
- Birthplace
- Havre de Grace, Maryland, U.S.
- Debut league
- MLB
- Debut date
- August 10
- Debut year
- 1981
- Debut team
- Baltimore Orioles
Lore & Background
Ripken holds the record for consecutive games played (2,632), having surpassed Lou Gehrig's streak of 2,130. He was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007 with 98.53% of votes. Born in Maryland, he was drafted by the Orioles in the second round of the 1978 MLB draft. He reached the majors in 1981 as a shortstop, moved to third base in 1982, then shifted to shortstop in 1983 and stayed there until 1996.
In 1982, he won the AL Rookie of the Year Award and began his consecutive games played streak on May 30 of that year. In 1983, he won a World Series championship and his first AL MVP. In 1991, he was named an All-Star, won the Home Run Derby, and received his first All-Star Game MVP Award, second AL MVP, and first Gold Glove. He broke the consecutive games record on September 6, 1995.
He voluntarily ended his 16-season streak at 2,632 games on September 20, 1998. He moved to third base in 1997 and played there for his final five seasons. In 2001, he was named All-Star Game MVP and received the Commissioner's Historic Achievement Award.
Reader's Guide
Ripken is considered one of the best shortstops in baseball history. He holds the record for most home runs as a shortstop (345), breaking Ernie Banks' record. He was selected as the starting shortstop for the MLB All-Century Team. After retirement, he became president and CEO of Ripken Baseball, Inc., purchased three minor league teams and a minority stake with the Orioles, and is active in charity. He lives in Annapolis, Maryland, and is married to Laura Ripken, a judge on the Appellate Court of Maryland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What positions did Cal Ripken Jr. play?
Ripken began his storied career primarily at shortstop, where he established himself as a defensive anchor for two decades. Later in his tenure, he transitioned to third base while maintaining his status as an everyday player until retirement.
Why is Cal Ripken Jr. called 'The Iron Man'?
He earned this legendary nickname by setting the unbreakable Major League record for consecutive games played, showcasing a durability and loyalty that transcended the sport itself. His refusal to miss time due to injury or fatigue made him an enduring symbol of consistency in baseball.
What major awards did Cal Ripken Jr. win during his career?
Ripken was named the American League Most Valuable Player twice, winning the award in 1983 and again in 1991 for his exceptional performance. His impact on the game was further cemented when he became one of only a few players to be elected to the Hall of Fame with nearly unanimous support.
How did Cal Ripken Jr.'s career conclude?
After spending every single day of his professional life in Baltimore from 1981 to 2001, Ripken voluntarily retired at the end of the 2001 season. His departure marked the end of an era for the Orioles and left behind a legacy that continues to inspire fans worldwide.
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