Lou Gehrig, born Henry Louis Gehrig (June 19, 1903 – June 2, 1941), was an American professional baseball player known for his accomplishments as a first baseman for the New York Yankees from 1923 to 1939. He is widely considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time.
Gehrig's career statistics reflect his exceptional talent and durability. He played in an impressive 2,130 consecutive games, earning him the nickname "The Iron Horse." He excelled both offensively and defensively throughout his career, consistently displaying exceptional batting skills, power, and fine fielding abilities. Gehrig achieved a lifetime batting average of .340, amassed over 2,700 hits, and slugged 493 home runs, establishing himself as an offensive force to be reckoned with.
However, Gehrig's career was tragically cut short when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which later came to be known as "Lou Gehrig's disease." Despite his condition, he displayed immense courage and sportsmanship, ultimately delivering his famous farewell speech on July 4, 1939, at Yankee Stadium. Addressing his fans, teammates, and the world, Gehrig humbly referred to himself as "the luckiest man on the face of the earth."
Lou Gehrig's legacy extends beyond his unparalleled accomplishments on the baseball field. His exceptional character, perseverance, and class in the face of adversity have made him an enduring figure in the annals of sports history. Gehrig's name continues to be synonymous with excellence, courage, and dignity, serving as an inspiration to athletes and individuals alike.
