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The History of Great Players for The Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore Orioles – A Look at their Greatest Players
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As most diehard fans of baseball know, the Baltimore Orioles began their life as a Major League Baseball (MLB) team in 1954. Formerly located in St. Louis – where they were known as the Browns – the Orioles have had a long history f victories and championships. This is probably news to most casual fans that are more familiar with the Orioles’ more recent track record of unsuccessful season. In their heyday, however, the Orioles won 6 Pennants in the American League, as well as a World Series Championship in 1966 which was repeated in 1970, and again in 1983. Much of that success has been the direct result of the many great players who have worn the Orioles’ uniform on the field.
Cal Ripken, Jr., the Ironman
The most loved Oriole of all time is definitely Cal Ripkin, Jr. Often referred to as the Ironman of Baseball, Ripken was 1982’s Rookie of the Year, and the MVP of the League in both 1983 and 1991. He holds the record for most games played as an Oriole, with more than 3,000, as well as the most hits with 3,184. He also had the most home runs; runs scored; and runs batted in (RBIs). Of course, none of his records are more well-known than his record 2,632 consecutive games on the field. You might think that Ripken’s longevity and reliability were simply the result of an injury-free career, but you would be mistaken. The Ironman had his fair share of minor injuries through the years, but just never let any of them keep him out of the lineup.
Frank Robinson, the not-so washed up acquisition
Back in 1966, the Orioles managed to acquire Frank Robinson from the Cincinnati Reds – who were sure that the onetime star was past his prime. The trade proved to be a steal for the Orioles who watched in awe as Robinson enjoyed resurgence that very year, topping the American League in home runs, batting average, and runs batted in. This, as you might expect, also netted him the American League MVP award for the year. During his time with the Orioles, Robinson batted .300, drove 179 balls out of the park, and had more than 500 RBIs. The Orioles rewarded his efforts by making his number the first in the history of the team to be retired.
The greatest Oriole pitcher
3-time Cy Young award winner Jim Palmer is, without a doubt, the greatest pitcher ever to step onto the mound in an Orioles uniform. With more than 260 wins, 558 games to his credit, 53 complete shutouts, and more than 2,000 strikeouts, Palmer is a legend amongst Baltimore fans – and deservedly so. Still the only MLB pitcher to compete in and win a World Series contest in each of three separate decades, Palmer’s longevity and winning capacity made the Orioles consistent contenders in the League. It is no wonder that today’s Orioles fans continue to look back longingly on the Palmer era.
USC On The Gridiron
USC (aka University of Southern California) has been a college football powerhouse for many years. The football program was established in 1888. They have claimed a tremendous 11 national championships. Their national championships run from the late 1920’s to as recent as 2004. However, the 2004 title may be vacated due to recent NCAA violations. Over the past few years, USC has been a consistent top 5 football program.
The 1968 Heisman Winner, O.J. Simpson could hardly be forgotten due to his prior run-ins with the law. No matter his legal problems, his success was on the football field. An award for being the best in college football in 1968. Leading the nation in rushing yards two straight seasons. Being known for winning the Heisman race by the greatest difference ever. O.J. continued with success in the NFL including the award(NFL MVP) given to the best pro football player back in 1973.
Charles White was voted Heisman winner in 1979. He also won the Maxwell & Walter Camp awards. One for the best college football player in America & the other for college football Player of the Year. During his college career, White set or tied a total of 22 records. He was also an All-American in 1978 & 1979. He was voted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1995. In the NFL, White didn’t have as much success. He did garner one Pro Bowl selection. He later revealed that he struggled with drug addition in the NFL. In 1987, he enjoyed his best NFL season with 1,387 yards & 11 TD’s.
Allen went to the next level & had continued success. A Super Bowl champ. An NFL MVP. A 6-time Pro Bowl selection. He spent most of his NFL career with the Raiders. He has been voted into both the Pro & College Football Hall of Fame.
A more recent USC tailback great and a present NFL player. His final two seasons he garnered college football All-American honors. His senior campaign was good enough for achieving the Heisman Trophy. The Saints gave him a chance to be a part of their backfield. In under 5 seasons, this player has seen limited personal success. However, his team achieved the most coveted success by taking home the Super Bowl in 2010.
Freddie Brister is a huge fan of all sports and recommends checking out his Virginia Tech Watch and these Florida State Blanket
