Hailing from Arkansas, Brooks Robinson joined the Orioles as an 18-year-old in September 1955 and, despite a challenging start, became a fixture in Baltimore from July 1959 onward.
Beloved Hall of Fame third baseman Brooks Robinson, known for his remarkable defensive skills and down-to-earth demeanor, has passed away at the age of 86. The Orioles, in conjunction with Robinson’s family, confirmed his death on Tuesday, although the cause was not disclosed.
Robinson’s entire 23-year career was spent with the Orioles, a rarity in the pre-free agent era. He played a pivotal role in Baltimore’s 1970 World Series victory over Cincinnati and even hit a homer in Game 1 of the Orioles’ 1966 sweep against the Los Angeles Dodgers, securing their first championship.
Over his illustrious career, Robinson participated in 18 All-Star Games, clinched 16 consecutive Gold Gloves, and was named the AL Most Valuable Player in 1964 after batting .318 with 28 home runs and a league-leading 118 RBIs. He retired with impressive stats, including 268 home runs, 1,357 RBIs, and a respectable .267 batting average in 2,896 career games.
Robinson will always be remembered for his tireless work ethic and exceptional fielding abilities at third base, solidifying his place as one of the greatest fielders in baseball history.
Hailing from Arkansas, Robinson joined the Orioles as an 18-year-old in September 1955 and, despite a challenging start, became a fixture in Baltimore from July 1959 onward.
Born as Brooks Calbert Robinson Jr. in Little Rock on May 18, 1937, he made Baltimore his home while retaining his charming southern twang, endearing himself to the blue-collar fans in the city.
Brooks Robinson was known as “Mr. Oriole”
Known as “Mr. Oriole,” Robinson stood alongside other sports legends like Johnny Unitas and Cal Ripken in the hearts of Baltimore fans. Even those who never saw him play had the privilege of enjoying his insights through team broadcasts.
While Ripken was celebrated as “The Iron Man” for his consecutive games played, Robinson was no stranger to the field, playing in at least 152 games in 14 seasons and 144 games in the other two years from 1960 to 1975.
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Brooks Robinson retired in 1977 after a brief stint, batting only .149 in 24 games, and his jersey was retired that year.
One of his most unforgettable moments came as the MVP of the 1970 World Series when he helped the Orioles redeem themselves and secure victory over the Reds. His incredible fielding and batting prowess, including a tiebreaking home run in Game 1, made him a standout in that series.
Robinson’s legacy in Maryland extended well beyond his playing days, with Brooks Robinson Drive in Pikesville and the annual state high school All-Star game at Camden Yards named in his honor.