Lou Gehrig

Lou Gehrig is an American professional baseball player, born on June 19, 1903, in New York City. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Gehrig began his professional career with the New York Yankees in 1923, where he won multiple titles, including six World Series titles.

Gehrig is known for his incredible strength, batting ability, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, including two Most Valuable Player awards, and holds multiple records, such as the most career grand slams.

Off the field, Gehrig is also recognized for his courage and humility, inspiring millions worldwide even after his career was cut short by a rare disease, later named after him.

New York Yankees

• Youth and Early Career: Gehrig was born and raised in New York City and attended Columbia University on a football scholarship. He signed with the New York Yankees in 1923.

Early Success

• Gehrig quickly became a key player for the Yankees, forming a legendary partnership with Babe Ruth. During his career, Gehrig won six World Series titles and was twice named Most Valuable Player.

Later Career

• In the later stages of his career, Gehrig's health began to decline due to a rare neuromuscular disease. In 1939, Gehrig retired from baseball, delivering a famous farewell speech that is still remembered today. Despite his early retirement, Gehrig's records and legacy remain unmatched.

American League All-Star Team

• Debut: Made his debut for the All-Star team in 1933.

Achievements:

• Selected to the All-Star team seven consecutive times from 1933 to 1939.
• Gehrig is one of the greatest players in the history of American baseball.

• Position: Primarily a first baseman.
• Skills: Known for his powerful hitting, fielding prowess, and durability. Gehrig is celebrated for his consistency, having played 2,130 consecutive games, a record that stood for 56 years.

• Family: Gehrig was married to Eleanor Twitchell. They did not have any children.
• Legacy: Gehrig's life and career were cut short by a rare disease, now known as Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS). His courage in the face of adversity has inspired millions.

• Lou Gehrig is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his courage, humility, and dedication to the sport of baseball. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the field, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Most Career Grand Slams:

• 23 grand slams

Most Consecutive Games Played:

• 2,130 games

Most Runs Batted In for a Single Season:

• 184 RBIs in 1931

Twice Named Most Valuable Player:

• In 1927 and 1936

Books

• Eig, J. (2005) Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig. New York: Simon & Schuster.
• Robinson, R. (2001) Iron Horse: Lou Gehrig in His Time. New York: W. W. Norton & Company.

Websites

• Baseball Hall of Fame: Information about Lou Gehrig’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.baseballhall.org
• New York Yankees: Details about Gehrig’s career at New York Yankees. Available at: https://www.mlb.com/yankees

Articles

• BBC Sport: Lou Gehrig: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/sport/baseball
• The Guardian: Lou Gehrig’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/lou-gehrig

Documentaries

• Gehrig (2003): Directed by Gary Hines. This documentary provides a detailed look at Gehrig’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Lou Gehrig, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com