Baseball Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda, “The Baby Bull,” Dies at 86

Orlando Cepeda, the legendary San Francisco Giants first baseman known as “The Baby Bull,” passed away at the age of 86 in his home. Major League Baseball paid tribute to the Hall of Famer, highlighting his impressive career that included 379 home runs, a .297 batting average, and 11 All-Star team selections over 17 seasons.

Cepeda, affectionately nicknamed “Cha-Cha,” began his baseball journey after being convinced by Pedro Zorilla to try out for the New York Giants. He quickly made a name for himself, winning the National League Rookie of the Year award in 1958. His talent and dedication to the sport led him to be unanimously selected for the NL MVP Award in 1967, helping the St. Louis Cardinals secure a World Series championship.

Despite his success on the field, Cepeda faced personal challenges, including a drug possession arrest in 1975 that tarnished his reputation. However, his contributions to the sport were undeniable, leading to his induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999.

Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Cepeda came from humble beginnings, with his father, Pedro Cepeda, being a talented baseball player who was denied the opportunity to play in the major leagues due to racial discrimination. Cepeda’s legacy lives on through his wife Nydia and their five sons.

The baseball world mourns the loss of a true icon, whose impact on the game will be remembered for generations to come. Rest in peace, Orlando Cepeda, “The Baby Bull.”