Photograph of Brooks Robinson, former Baltimore Orioles third baseman, being honored during a Hall of Fame ceremony before a baseball game between the Houston Astros and Baltimore Orioles on September 24, 2022, in Baltimore. Robinson, known for his exceptional fielding skills and endearing personality, passed away on September 26, 2023, as announced jointly by the Orioles and his family. (AP Photo/Gail Burton)
Brooks Robinson, a famous baseball legend in the Hall of Fame, known for his incredible skills and friendly personality, has passed away at the age of 86.
“We’re very sad to announce that Brooks Robinson has passed away,” his family and the Orioles said together. “He’s been a crucial part of our Orioles family since 1955, and his impact on our team, our community, and baseball as a whole will always be remembered.” The statement didn’t mention the cause of his death.
Tribute and Mourning
Before their game against the Washington Nationals, the Orioles paid tribute to Robinson with a moment of silence, and both teams lined up to show their respect. Fans gathered around a 9-foot statue of Robinson at Camden Yards before the game.
Orioles manager Brandon Hyde said, “Many of our players tonight played with heavy hearts. Brooks was a true icon in this game and in our city. There aren’t many like him.”
Robinson’s Remarkable Career
Robinson spent his entire 23-year career with the Orioles, a rarity in the era before free agency. He played a crucial role in the Orioles’ victory over Cincinnati in the 1970 World Series and hit a home run in Game 1 of the 1966 World Series, the Orioles’ first championship.
Jim Palmer, a fellow Orioles Hall of Famer, said, “Brooks was an outstanding player and a wonderful person both on and off the field. He was respectful, kind, and genuine.”
Robinson participated in 18 All-Star Games and was named the AL Most Valuable Player in 1964 when he batted .318 with 28 home runs and 118 RBIs. He finished his career with 268 home runs, 1,357 RBIs, and a .267 batting average in 2,896 games.
However, he is most famous for his remarkable skills as a third baseman, winning 16 consecutive Gold Gloves, making him one of the best fielding third basemen in baseball history.
Robinson was nicknamed, the “Human Vacuum Cleaner,” which reflected his exceptional fielding abilities. He also ranked third in career defensive wins above replacement (WAR) behind Ozzie Smith and Mark Belanger, both shortstops.
Robinson’s Work Ethic and Influence
Former Orioles manager Earl Weaver praised Robinson’s work ethic, saying, “He was so steady and set an example for young players. He was the last to arrive in the clubhouse but the first on the field, taking groundballs.”
Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker remembered Robinson as a friend and a gentleman during his early years in baseball. He also noted Robinson’s positive influence on African-American players in the Orioles’ team during a time when racial integration in baseball was still progressing.
Baltimore’s Sports Hero
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Robinson made Baltimore his home and became known as “Mr. Oriole.” He was a sports hero in Baltimore, alongside Johnny Unitas and Cal Ripken.
Robinson retired in 1977 with his jersey retired that year. He was elected into the Hall of Fame in 1983 and named to baseball’s All-Century team in 1999.
Robinson’s Recognition and Involvement
In his later years, Robinson faced health issues but remained active in community events and charitable work. He was also a special adviser for the Orioles and served as the president of the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association.
Information from ESPN was used in this report.
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