Last Updated: April 25th, 2024 by Michael Schatz
The Iron Man is the perfect nickname for Cal Ripken Jr. The man simply refused to stop playing the game of baseball. His durability was only surpassed by his talents. Known as one of the best players of his generation, Ripken amassed a long list of accolades.
Let’s take a look back at some of those milestones and achievements that made Cal Ripken Jr. one of the all-time greats.
The Streak That Defined a Legend: 2,632 Consecutive Games Played
You don’t get the nickname ‘Iron Man’ for nothing. What was thought to be an unbreakable record, Lou Gehrig’s consecutive games played streak, was broken by Cal Ripken Jr. on September 6, 1995, when Ripken played in his 2,131 consecutive game.
Ripken would finish his streak with an incredible 2,632 consecutive games. A record that will likely never be broken.
Rookie Sensation: 1982 AL Rookie of the Year
Cal Ripken Jr. took the 1982 season by storm, earning the American League Rookie of the Year title. He hit .264 with 28 home runs and 93 RBIs. It not only put the league on notice but also marked the beginning of his journey as a baseball legend.
Climbing to the Peak: 1983 AL MVP and World Series Champion
Cal Ripken Jr. followed his ROY win with something even better in 1983: He won American League MVP.
He slashed .318/27/102, leading the Orioles into the World Series where they would defeat the Philadelphia Phillies in five games. The win would be Ripken’s only World Series championship.
Power at Shortstop: Breaking the Home Run Record for Shortstops
On July 15, 1993, Ripken made history by breaking the home run record for shortstops when he hit his 278th home run. That number passed Ernie Banks for number one on the all-time list.
A Glimmering Year: 1991 AL MVP, Gold Glove, and All-Star Game MVP
1991 stood out as Cal Ripken Jr.’s banner year. He claimed the American League MVP – his second MVP award – as well as a Gold Glove and the All-Star Game MVP title.
Joining the Elite: The 3,000 Hit Club
On April 15, 2000, Cal Ripken Jr. achieved another major milestone, joining the elite 3,000 Hit Club. This momentous occasion came against the Minnesota Twins when Ripken lined a clean single to center field, marking him as one of the greatest hitters in the game.
He would finish his career with 3,184 hits.
Going Deep: 400 Home Runs
Not thought of as a ‘power hitter’, Ripken still managed to put up impressive power numbers. On September 2, 1999, Ripken took a 1-1 pitch from Devil Rays starter Rolando Arrojo deep into the left field seats for his 400th career home run.
When it was all said and done, Ripken would finish with 431 career home runs.
Farewell to a Hero: Ripken’s Retirement and All-Star Game MVP in 2001
Following his monumental achievements, Ripken announced his retirement in 2001, marking the end of an era for baseball fans everywhere. His farewell season became a celebratory tour, giving fans in every ballpark a chance to honor his legendary career. Highlighting his final year, Ripken stole the show at the 2001 All-Star Game in Seattle, blasting a home run that earned him the All-Star Game MVP.
Enshrinement Among the Greats: 2007 Baseball Hall of Fame Induction
Cal Ripken Jr.’s journey culminated in a crowning achievement on July 29, 2007, when he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Garnering an overwhelming 98.5% of the vote on his first ballot, Ripken’s entry into the Hall celebrated his exceptional 21-season career with the Baltimore Orioles.
A Lifetime of Achievement: Ripken’s Impact and Legacy Beyond the Field
Cal Ripken Jr.’s influence extends well past the diamond, where he’s revered not just for what he did between the lines but also for how he inspired a generation off the field. He’s been a relentless ambassador for the game, engaging in numerous charitable activities, especially focusing on youth baseball programs through the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation. This foundation has not only helped build fields for children in underserved communities but has also taught life lessons through baseball.