MLB Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda Dies at 86

Hall of Fame slugger Orlando Cepeda has passed away at 86, as announced by Major League Baseball.

“MLB mourns the passing of Hall of Famer Orlando Cepeda at the age of 86. Known as ‘Cha-Cha’ and ‘The Baby Bull,’ Cepeda slugged 379 home runs, batted .297, and made 11 All-Star teams over 17 seasons. He was unanimously selected as the NL Rookie of the Year in 1958 with the Giants. He was also a unanimous selection for the NL MVP Award in 1967 when he helped lead the Cardinals to the World Series championship.”

His wife Nydia shared: “Our beloved Orlando passed away peacefully at home this evening, listening to his favorite music and surrounded by his loved ones. We take comfort that he is at peace.”

Cepeda spent parts of 17 seasons in the majors with various teams including Giants, Cardinals, Braves, A’s, Red Sox, and Royals. Over his career, he collected impressive stats: 2,351 hits, 379 home runs, and many more accolades. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999.

Giants Honor Their Legend:

Most of his career highlights came during his nine seasons with the Giants who signed him back in late 1953 for just $500. During a game against Dodgers on Friday night, they honored him with a moment of silence and a touching video tribute.

Orlando Cepeda, a #ForeverGiant 🧡🖤

— SFGiants (@SFGiants)

Fans might feel deeply saddened by this news but also proud remembering his legacy.

Orlando had a special bond with San Francisco compared to Willie Mays who was more linked with New York days. He once said: “Right from the beginning I fell in love with the city… I usually had two nights free each week… On Thursdays I’d go to Copacabana for Latin music… Sundays after games I’d hit Jazz Workshop… I roomed then with Felipe Alou and Rubén Gómez…”

In May 1966 after some unfair treatment by manager Alvin Dark and Willie McCovey’s rise , Cepeda got traded to Cardinals for Ray Sadecki starting another chapter at age twenty-eight! His best season followed soon winning National League MVP award posting OPS+164 hitting twenty-five homers leading NL111 RBIs!

Despite frequent team changes afterward (Braves/A’s/RedSox/Royals), Cepeda remained one top hitter till retiring post-1974 season finishing strong w/RedSox1973 hitting twenty homers becoming first-ever Designated Hitter Year award winner now known Edgar Martinez Award!

Finally retired officially ‘74 ending illustrious playing career; enshrined Cooperstown ‘99 cementing legendary status forever remembered fans cherish memories moments asked opinion thoughts feelings share below!