Ripken Jr. has compiled an average at the plate of .274 for his time in baseball with 1,690 scored runs and an OPS of .339. He has fanned 1,368 times and has gotten a free base on 1,155 occasions, contributing to a .338 OBP. For his career, Ripken Jr. has slapped 445 baseballs over the fence while knocking in 1,763 runs. He has compiled a slugging percentage of .001 and he has totaled 5,340 bases. Over the course of his time in the league, he stepped into the batters box 13,399 times and has come through with a base hit 3,298 times.
So far this season, Cal Ripken Jr. has knocked in 68 runs and has recorded a slugging percentage of .361. He has accumulated an OBP of .276 in addition to 26 free passes and 63 K’s. Ripken Jr. has 172 total bases with 114 base knocks in 477 at-bats. He has earned a batting average of .239 in addition to holding an OPS of .637. He has notched 43 runs this season and has drilled 14 balls over the fence.
| Year | Team | BA | HR | H | BB | R | RBI | OBP | PA | AB | OPS | OPS+ | 2B | 3B | G | SLG | SB | CS | TB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | .276 | 431 | 3,184 | 1,129 | 1,647 | 1,695 | .340 | 12,883 | 11,551 | .788 | 112 | 603 | 44 | 3,001 | .447 | 36 | 39 | 5,168 | 1,305 | |
| 2001 | BAL | .239 | 14 | 114 | 26 | 43 | 68 | .276 | 516 | 477 | .637 | 70 | 16 | 0 | 128 | .361 | 0 | 2 | 172 | 63 |
| 2000 | BAL | .256 | 15 | 79 | 23 | 43 | 56 | .310 | 339 | 309 | .763 | 95 | 16 | 0 | 83 | .453 | 0 | 0 | 140 | 37 |
| 1999 | BAL | .340 | 18 | 113 | 13 | 51 | 57 | .368 | 354 | 332 | .952 | 144 | 27 | 0 | 86 | .584 | 0 | 1 | 194 | 31 |
| 1998 | BAL | .271 | 14 | 163 | 51 | 65 | 61 | .331 | 659 | 601 | .721 | 89 | 27 | 1 | 161 | .389 | 0 | 2 | 234 | 68 |
| 1997 | BAL | .270 | 17 | 166 | 56 | 79 | 84 | .331 | 686 | 615 | .733 | 93 | 30 | 0 | 162 | .402 | 1 | 0 | 247 | 73 |
| 1996 | BAL | .278 | 26 | 178 | 59 | 94 | 102 | .341 | 707 | 640 | .807 | 102 | 40 | 1 | 163 | .466 | 1 | 2 | 298 | 78 |
| 1995 | BAL | .262 | 17 | 144 | 52 | 71 | 88 | .324 | 613 | 550 | .745 | 91 | 33 | 2 | 144 | .422 | 0 | 1 | 232 | 59 |
| 1994 | BAL | .315 | 13 | 140 | 32 | 71 | 75 | .364 | 484 | 444 | .823 | 107 | 19 | 3 | 112 | .459 | 1 | 0 | 204 | 41 |
| 1993 | BAL | .257 | 24 | 165 | 65 | 87 | 90 | .329 | 718 | 641 | .748 | 97 | 26 | 3 | 162 | .420 | 1 | 4 | 269 | 58 |
| 1992 | BAL | .251 | 14 | 160 | 64 | 73 | 72 | .323 | 715 | 637 | .689 | 93 | 29 | 1 | 162 | .366 | 4 | 3 | 233 | 50 |
| 1991 | BAL | .323 | 34 | 210 | 53 | 99 | 114 | .374 | 717 | 650 | .940 | 162 | 46 | 5 | 162 | .566 | 6 | 1 | 368 | 46 |
| 1990 | BAL | .250 | 21 | 150 | 82 | 78 | 84 | .341 | 695 | 600 | .756 | 114 | 28 | 4 | 161 | .415 | 3 | 1 | 249 | 66 |
| 1989 | BAL | .257 | 21 | 166 | 57 | 80 | 93 | .317 | 712 | 646 | .718 | 105 | 30 | 0 | 162 | .401 | 3 | 2 | 259 | 72 |
| 1988 | BAL | .264 | 23 | 152 | 102 | 87 | 81 | .372 | 689 | 575 | .803 | 128 | 25 | 1 | 161 | .431 | 2 | 2 | 248 | 69 |
| 1987 | BAL | .252 | 27 | 157 | 81 | 97 | 98 | .333 | 717 | 624 | .769 | 105 | 28 | 3 | 162 | .436 | 3 | 5 | 272 | 77 |
| 1986 | BAL | .282 | 25 | 177 | 70 | 98 | 81 | .355 | 707 | 627 | .816 | 123 | 35 | 1 | 162 | .461 | 4 | 2 | 289 | 60 |
| 1985 | BAL | .282 | 26 | 181 | 67 | 116 | 110 | .347 | 718 | 642 | .816 | 124 | 32 | 5 | 161 | .469 | 2 | 3 | 301 | 68 |
| 1984 | BAL | .304 | 27 | 195 | 71 | 103 | 86 | .374 | 716 | 641 | .884 | 146 | 37 | 7 | 162 | .510 | 2 | 1 | 327 | 89 |
| 1983 | BAL | .318 | 27 | 211 | 58 | 121 | 102 | .371 | 726 | 663 | .888 | 144 | 47 | 2 | 162 | .517 | 0 | 4 | 343 | 97 |
| 1982 | BAL | .264 | 28 | 158 | 46 | 90 | 93 | .317 | 655 | 598 | .792 | 115 | 32 | 5 | 160 | .475 | 3 | 3 | 284 | 95 |
| 1981 | BAL | .128 | 0 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 0 | .150 | 40 | 39 | .278 | -19 | 0 | 0 | 23 | .128 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 8 |
Cal Ripken Jr., also known as “The Iron Man,” is a legendary name in Major League Baseball (MLB). His career is not only marked by his remarkable talent and achievements on the field but also by his extraordinary durability and sportsmanship. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Cal Ripken Jr., delve into his impressive stats, and look at the enduring popularity of his baseball cards.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Calvin Edwin Ripken Jr. was born on August 24, 1960, in Havre de Grace, Maryland. Growing up in a baseball family, with his father, Cal Ripken Sr., being a coach and manager in the Baltimore Orioles organization, Cal was destined for a life in baseball. He attended Aberdeen High School, where he excelled in various sports, but it was clear that baseball was his true passion.
Draft and Minor League Journey
In 1978, Cal was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the second round of the MLB draft. He spent a few years honing his skills in the minor leagues, where he quickly gained attention for his powerful hitting and strong defensive abilities. His minor league journey laid the foundation for what would become a remarkable MLB career.
Major League Breakthrough
Cal Ripken Jr. made his MLB debut with the Baltimore Orioles on August 10, 1981. The following year, he became the team’s starting shortstop and won the American League Rookie of the Year Award. His early success was a sign of things to come.
The Streak: A Testament to Durability
One of the most iconic aspects of Cal Ripken Jr.’s career is “The Streak.” On September 6, 1995, Cal broke Lou Gehrig’s longstanding record of 2,130 consecutive games played, a record that had stood for 56 years. Cal continued to play until he set the new record at 2,632 consecutive games, a feat that earned him the nickname “The Iron Man.”
His dedication to the game and his ability to perform at a high level day in and day out made him a beloved figure in the sports world. Cal’s streak is a testament to his durability, work ethic, and love for the game of baseball.
Cal Ripken Jr. Stats
Throughout his career, Cal Ripken Jr. consistently demonstrated excellence on the field. Here are some of his most notable career statistics:
Games Played: 3,001
Batting Average: .276
Home Runs: 431
Runs Batted In (RBIs): 1,695
Hits: 3,184
Cal’s impressive stats reflect his all-around ability as a player. He was not only a power hitter but also a reliable and consistent presence in the Orioles’ lineup.
Defensive Prowess
Cal Ripken Jr. was also known for his exceptional defensive skills. As a shortstop, he won two Gold Glove Awards in 1991 and 1992. His height and strong arm made him a formidable presence on the field, and he often made difficult plays look routine.
Legacy and Impact
Cal Ripken Jr.’s impact on the game of baseball extends far beyond his statistics. He was a role model for aspiring athletes, demonstrating the importance of perseverance, dedication, and sportsmanship. His work ethic and commitment to excellence continue to inspire players and fans alike.
Hall of Fame Induction
In 2007, Cal Ripken Jr. was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, receiving an overwhelming 98.53% of the vote, one of the highest percentages in history. This honor solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever step onto the field.
The Popularity of Cal Ripken Jr. Baseball Cards
Cal Ripken Jr.’s baseball cards are highly sought after by collectors and fans. His rookie card, in particular, is considered a prized possession. The demand for his cards is not just due to his remarkable career but also because of the nostalgia and admiration fans have for his contributions to the game.
Valuing Cal Ripken Jr. Cards
The value of Cal Ripken Jr.’s baseball cards can vary based on factors such as card condition, rarity, and demand. His 1982 Topps Traded rookie card is one of the most coveted among collectors. Cards in mint condition can fetch a high price, reflecting the enduring legacy of “The Iron Man.”
Life After Baseball
Since retiring from professional baseball in 2001, Cal Ripken Jr. has remained active in promoting the sport. He founded the Cal Ripken Sr. Foundation, which aims to provide opportunities and mentorship to young people through baseball and softball. His contributions to youth sports and his community involvement continue to make a positive impact.
Broadcasting and Writing
Cal has also dabbled in broadcasting, providing insightful commentary on the game he loves. Additionally, he has authored several books, sharing his experiences and life lessons with readers.
Conclusion
Cal Ripken Jr.’s career is a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and indomitable spirit. His achievements on the field, particularly “The Streak,” have cemented his place in baseball history. Whether it’s through his stats, baseball cards, or philanthropic efforts, Cal Ripken Jr. remains an enduring figure in the world of baseball.
For fans and collectors alike, Cal Ripken Jr. represents the epitome of what it means to be a true sportsman and a legend of the game. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of baseball players and fans for years to come.
