Baseball icon Orlando Cepeda, famously known as “The Baby Bull,” passed away at the age of 86, as confirmed by his family through an official statement released by the San Francisco Giants on Friday night.
Nydia Cepeda, his wife, conveyed that Orlando was surrounded by his family and enjoying his favorite music when he peacefully passed away at his residence.
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“We lost a true gentleman and legend,” Giants chairman Greg Johnson said.
“Orlando was a great ambassador for the game throughout his playing career and beyond. He was one of the all-time great Giants and he will truly be missed.”
The specific cause of Cepeda‘s death was not disclosed at the time of the announcement.
Cepeda’s career
Born in Puerto Rico, Cepeda made his Major League Baseball debut in 1958, swiftly establishing himself as a prominent player. He clinched the National League Rookie of the Year award during the Giants‘ inaugural season in San Francisco, following their relocation from New York.
Throughout his illustrious career, Cepeda earned multiple accolades, including the National League MVP honor in 1967 while playing for the St. Louis Cardinals. Recognized for his powerful batting skills, he secured 11 All-Star selections and excelled as a formidable hitter.
His standout season occurred in 1961 when he led the National League with 46 home runs and topped Major League Baseball with 142 RBIs, solidifying his reputation as a premier slugger.
In addition to his tenure with the Giants, Cepeda also played for the Atlanta Braves, Oakland Athletics, Kansas City Royals, and Boston Red Sox.
Honoring his enduring impact on baseball, Cepeda was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999 by the Veterans Committee, a fitting recognition of his exceptional contributions to the sport.