SE Atlanta News

Hall of Fame first baseman Orlando Cepeda, who left an indelible mark on two National League franchises during the 1960s, passed away on Friday at the age of 86, as announced by the San Francisco Giants.

"We lost a true gentleman and legend," said Giants chairman Greg Johnson. "Orlando was a great ambassador for the game throughout his playing career and beyond. He was one of the all-time great Giants and he will truly be missed. Our condolences go out to the Cepeda family for their tremendous loss and we extend our thoughts to Orlando’s teammates, his friends, and to all those touched by his passing."

"This is truly a sad day for the San Francisco Giants," added Giants president and chief executive officer Larry Baer. "For all of Orlando’s extraordinary baseball accomplishments, it was his generosity, kindness, and joy that defined him. No one loved the game more. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, Nydia; his five children, Orlando Jr., Malcolm, Ali, Carl, and Hector; his nine grandchildren; his one great-granddaughter; as well as his extended family and friends."

Cepeda emerged as a key figure in baseball's expansion across America when the New York Giants moved to San Francisco before the 1958 season. Traded to St. Louis during the 1966 season, "The Baby Bull" won the National League Most Valuable Player award in 1967 and played a significant role in leading the Cardinals to back-to-back pennant-winning seasons in 1967-68.

Legend has it that during Spring Training in 1958, Giants player-coach Whitey Lockman approached manager Bill Rigney about Cepeda's potential: "Too bad the kid's a year away." When Rigney asked from what, Lockman replied: "From the Hall of Fame."

Cepeda quickly made an impact by earning NL Rookie of the Year honors following the Giants' inaugural season in California with impressive statistics including a .312 batting average with 25 home runs and 96 RBIs.

Throughout his career with various teams including St. Louis Cardinals and Atlanta Braves among others, Cepeda remained one of baseball's most formidable hitters. His career statistics include a .297 batting average with 379 home runs over 17 seasons.

"Orlando Cepeda was one of the best hitters of his generation," said Commissioner Rob Manfred in a statement. "He starred for three historic National League franchises... This beloved figure from Puerto Rico helped turn baseball into a multicultural game."

Bob Melvin also expressed sorrow: "What another gut punch... Another incredible personality... To have it so close in proximity to Willie [Mays], it’s kind of staggering."

Born on September 17, 1937 in Ponce, Puerto Rico into a family deeply rooted in baseball tradition through his father Pedro “Perucho” Cepeda—Orlando joined Major League Baseball under scout Alex Pompez’s guidance despite facing numerous challenges including language barriers and racial discrimination prevalent at that time.

After retiring from professional play post-1974 season—having amassed accolades such as being named American League's Designated Hitter Of The Year (1973)—Cepeda continued contributing towards promoting Latin American talent within MLB circles until ultimately being inducted into Cooperstown via Veterans Committee election (1999).

Dave Roberts reflected upon this loss poignantly stating: “He was certainly right there amongst legends here… there was somberness felt tonight.”

His legacy endures not only through statistical achievements but also personal virtues highlighted by peers’ testimonials alongside lasting tributes like statues commemorating him outside Oracle Park unveiled back September ’08 encapsulating enduring affection held towards ‘The Baby Bull’.