All of the greats have passed, and now everyone else we all enjoyed watching play the game, are passing. Such is life.
Orlando Cepeda, the renowned Hall of Fame first baseman affectionately known as “Baby Bull,” has passed away at the age of 86. His death was announced by the San Francisco Giants and confirmed by his family, who stated that he died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones and listening to his favorite music. A moment of silence was observed at Oracle Park during a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers to honor his memory.
A tribute to Orlando Cepeda outside of Oracle Park. pic.twitter.com/qeEObrdLAA
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) June 29, 2024
Cepeda’s passing comes shortly after the death of fellow Hall of Famer Willie Mays, deepening the sense of loss within the Giants community. Known for his powerful hitting, Cepeda had a significant impact on Major League Baseball, particularly as one of the early Puerto Rican stars in the sport. His career spanned 17 seasons, with stints at several teams including the Giants, St. Louis Cardinals, and Boston Red Sox.
Orlando God Rest Your Soul Baseball Hall of Famer and Giants Legend Orlando Cepeda Dead at 86 pic.twitter.com/w8PxOWS95f
— 𝕾𝖊𝖕𝖚𝖑𝖙𝖗𝖆𝖁𝖎𝖝𝖊𝖓 ™ 🎀 (@SepultraV) June 29, 2024
During his tenure with the Red Sox in 1973, Cepeda became Major League Baseball’s first designated hitter (DH), a role that he credited with reviving his career and ultimately helping him gain induction into the Hall of Fame in 1999 by the Veteran’s Committee. Despite his struggles with knee injuries, which resulted in ten operations and multiple stints on the disabled list, Cepeda excelled as a DH, hitting .289 with 20 home runs and 86 RBIs that season.
Orlando Cepeda (September 17, 1937 – June 28, 2024) #RIP pic.twitter.com/ASO7Et7U3C
— 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘤𝘢𝘣𝘥𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳 (@secretcabdr1ver) June 29, 2024
Cepeda’s journey was not without its challenges, both on and off the field. Early in his career, he faced cultural and language barriers that many Latin American players encountered during that era. His post-career life also saw legal troubles, including a conviction for drug smuggling in 1976, which many believe delayed his entry into the Hall of Fame.
Despite these obstacles, Cepeda’s contributions to baseball were immense. He was a seven-time All-Star, the 1958 NL Rookie of the Year, and the NL MVP in 1967. His career statistics include a .297 batting average and 379 home runs. Cepeda was not only a fearsome competitor but also a beloved figure in baseball, known for his resilience and passion for the game.
Key Points:
i. Orlando Cepeda, known as “Baby Bull,” died at age 86, surrounded by family at his home.
ii. His passing follows shortly after the death of another Giants Hall of Famer, Willie Mays, marking a sorrowful period for the team.
iii. Cepeda was MLB’s first designated hitter, revitalizing his career and aiding his eventual Hall of Fame induction in 1999.
iv. He faced significant challenges, including cultural barriers as a Puerto Rican in MLB and legal troubles post-retirement.
v. Cepeda leaves a legacy as a seven-time All-Star and former NL MVP, celebrated for his contributions to baseball both on and off the field.
RM Tomi – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
