Orlando Cepeda, a Hall of Fame baseball player renowned for his powerful hitting and vibrant personality, has died at the age of 86. Cepeda, affectionately known as “The Baby Bull,” passed away on Friday, June 28, at his home.
Cepeda’s illustrious 17-year Major League Baseball career left an indelible mark on the sport. He hit an impressive 379 home runs and drove in 1,365 runs, earning him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1999. He was only the second Puerto Rican native to receive this honor, following Roberto Clemente.
Cepeda’s career began with the San Francisco Giants, where he quickly established himself as one of the game’s most feared sluggers. He later played for the St. Louis Cardinals, Atlanta Braves, Oakland Athletics, Boston Red Sox, and Kansas City Royals. Throughout his career, Cepeda was celebrated for his offensive prowess and his ability to inspire both teammates and fans.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Cepeda was a beloved figure off the field. His contributions to the community and his role as an ambassador for the sport were widely recognized and appreciated.
Cepeda’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the baseball world, highlighting his impact on the sport and his legacy as a trailblazer for future generations of players.