Lou Gehrig, Legendary Baseball Player, Passes Away

Hall of Fame First Baseman

Early Life and Career

Henry Louis Gehrig, known as Lou Gehrig, was born on June 19, 1903, in New York City. A first baseman for the New York Yankees, Gehrig played 17 seasons in the Major Leagues from 1923 to 1939. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939.

Gehrig was known for his durability, playing in a record 2,130 consecutive games. He was a seven-time All-Star and won two World Series championships with the Yankees. In 1939, he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a terminal illness that gradually paralyzed his body.

Despite his illness, Gehrig continued to play for the Yankees until 1941. His retirement speech on July 4, 1941, is considered one of the most famous moments in baseball history. Gehrig died on June 2, 1941, at the age of 37.

Legacy

Lou Gehrig is remembered as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. He was known for his incredible power, durability, and sportsmanship. His struggle with ALS raised awareness about the disease and inspired the establishment of the Lou Gehrig Foundation.

Gehrig's legacy lives on through his Hall of Fame induction, the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award, which is given annually to the most outstanding player in Major League Baseball, and the Lou Gehrig Day, which is celebrated on June 2nd each year.