The Baltimore Orioles announced the passing of legendary player Brooks Robinson at the age of 86. Robinson, a Hall of Fame third baseman, had been an integral part of the Orioles Family since 1955 and had a lasting impact on the club, community, and baseball as a sport.
Robinson spent his entire 23-year career with the Orioles franchise, during which he helped the team win two World Series titles. With 268 home runs, 1,357 RBI, and a batting average of .267/.322/.401, Robinson was a valuable contributor to the team. He received numerous accolades, including 16 Gold Glove Awards and 18 All-Star Game appearances. In 1983, Robinson was inducted into the Hall of Fame, receiving 92% of the vote.
In addition to his impressive career, Robinson was also the recipient of several awards, including the 1964 Most Valuable Player Award, the 1970 World Series MVP Award, and the 1966 All-Star Game MVP Award.
Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred released a statement praising Robinson’s accomplishments and describing him as an embodiment of excellence, durability, loyalty, and winning baseball. Manfred also expressed condolences to Robinson’s family, friends, and fans.
Robinson joined the Orioles as an amateur free agent and quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut in September 1955 at the age of 18. Throughout his career, he accumulated an estimated 78.4 Wins Above Replacement value, ranking seventh all-time for third baseman players who appeared in at least 50% of their games. Robinson also holds the second-highest WAR in Orioles franchise history, behind Cal Ripken Jr.
During his time with the Orioles, Robinson contributed to the team’s success in winning the World Series titles in 1966 and 1970. The Orioles also reached the American League pennant in 1969 and 1971, though they lost in the World Series to the New York Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates respectively.
Robinson was incredibly beloved by fans and was even recognized in Baltimore through various gestures, including naming children after him.
