Cal Ripken Jr. nicknamed "The Ironman" because at the time of his retirement he held the record for most consecutive games played at 2,130. Ripken is a former shortstop and third baseman. He played 21 seasons in the MLB for the Baltimore Orioles (1981–2001). One of his position's most offensively productive players, Ripken compiled 3,184 hits, 431 home runs, and 1,695 runs batted in during his career, and he won two Gold Glove Awards for his defense. He was a 19-time All-Star and was twice named American League Most Valuable Player.
Ripken is considered one of the best shortstops and third basemen in baseball history. He was selected as the starting shortstop for the Major League Baseball All-Century Team. Ripken is a best-selling author and been heavily involved with Ripken Baseball, Inc., whose goal is to grow the love of baseball from a grassroots level. He has been active in charity work throughout his career and is still considered an ambassador of the game.
