Orlando Cepeda, the Hall of Fame first baseman affectionately known as “The Baby Bull,” passed away on June 28, 2024, at the age of 86. He died peacefully at his home in Concord, California, surrounded by loved ones and listening to his favorite music, according to his wife, Nydia.
Born on September 17, 1937, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Cepeda was the son of Pedro “Perucho” Cepeda, a renowned Puerto Rican baseball player. Orlando followed in his father’s footsteps, joining the San Francisco Giants in 1958 during their inaugural season in the city. That year, he made an immediate impact by winning the National League Rookie of the Year award unanimously. (MLB.com)
Cepeda played nine seasons with the Giants, earning six All-Star selections and leading the league in home runs and RBIs in 1961. His tenure with the Giants solidified his status as a franchise icon, with his number 30 retired and a statue erected in his honor outside Oracle Park in 2008.
In 1966, Cepeda was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, where he achieved further success. He won the National League Most Valuable Player award in 1967, leading the Cardinals to a World Series championship. Over his 17-year career, Cepeda also played for the Atlanta Braves, Oakland Athletics, Boston Red Sox, and Kansas City Royals, compiling a .297 batting average, 379 home runs, and 1,365 RBIs.
Despite his on-field accomplishments, Cepeda’s path to the Hall of Fame was delayed due to a 1975 drug conviction. He was eventually inducted in 1999 by the Veterans Committee, becoming the second Puerto Rican player, after Roberto Clemente, to receive the honor.
Beyond baseball, Cepeda was known for his humanitarian efforts, serving as an ambassador for the sport and engaging in community service initiatives. He was a regular presence at Giants home games until health issues arose in 2018.
The San Francisco Giants and the broader baseball community mourn his passing, remembering him not only for his athletic prowess but also for his contributions off the field. A moment of silence was held in his honor during a Giants game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, reflecting the deep respect and admiration he garnered throughout his life.
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