By Orlando Cepeda, the Hall of Fame first baseman known as “Baby Bull” and one of the pioneering Puerto Rican stars in Major League Baseball, has died at the age of 86. The San Francisco Giants and Cepeda’s family announced his passing on Friday night, with his wife Nydia stating that he died peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones and listening to his favorite music.
Cepeda’s death comes just 10 days after the passing of another Giants legend, Willie Mays, adding to the sense of loss felt by the baseball community. Giants manager Bob Melvin expressed the team’s sadness, calling the news “another gut punch” and praising Cepeda as an “incredible personality” beloved by fans.
Throughout his 17-year career in the majors, Cepeda was a force to be reckoned with at the plate. He began his journey with the San Francisco Giants in 1958, earning the National League Rookie of the Year award. His career highlights include being named the National League MVP in 1967 with the St. Louis Cardinals, and leading the NL in home runs (46) and RBIs (142) in 1961.
Cepeda’s career took an interesting turn in 1973 when he became the Boston Red Sox’s first designated hitter, a role he credits for his eventual induction into the Hall of Fame in 1999. Despite facing challenges with knee injuries throughout his career, Cepeda adapted to the DH position, hitting .289 with 20 home runs and 86 RBIs in his first season in the role.
As one of the early wave of Spanish-speaking players in MLB, Cepeda faced significant cultural and linguistic challenges. He recalled the difficulties of adapting to life in the United States while also supporting his family back in Puerto Rico. His experiences paved the way for future generations of Latin American players in the league.
Cepeda’s life wasn’t without controversy. In 1976, he was convicted of drug smuggling in Puerto Rico, which likely contributed to his initial exclusion from the Hall of Fame by baseball writers. However, his eventual induction by the Veterans Committee in 1999 cemented his legacy as one of the game’s greats.
Throughout his career, Cepeda was a seven-time All-Star and played in three World Series. He finished with a .297 career batting average and 379 home runs. Beyond his statistics, Cepeda was known for his love of the game and his role as an ambassador for baseball, particularly in Latin American communities.
In his later years, Cepeda remained a regular presence at Giants home games until health challenges arose in 2018. His impact on the game extended far beyond his playing days, as he continued to inspire and connect with fans and players alike.
As the baseball world mourns the loss of Orlando Cepeda, his legacy as a trailblazer for Latin American players, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his contributions to the sport will be remembered and celebrated. His story serves as a testament to the evolving nature of baseball and the enduring impact of those who helped shape its history.
