20 Facts About Lou Gehrig

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Lou Gehrig, one of baseball's most iconic figures, had a life filled with remarkable achievements and moments. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early life and career beginnings.

1. Born in New York City: Lou Gehrig was born on June 19, 1903, in the Yorkville neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. His parents were German immigrants.

2. Only Surviving Child: Out of four siblings, Gehrig was the only one to survive infancy. This fact made his parents particularly protective and supportive of his endeavors.

3. College Athlete: Before his professional baseball career, Gehrig attended Columbia University on a football scholarship. He was a standout athlete in both football and baseball.

4. Yankees Scout Discovery: While playing for Columbia, Gehrig was discovered by a New York Yankees scout. His powerful hitting caught the scout's attention, leading to his professional baseball career.

Major League Debut and Rise to Stardom

Gehrig's journey to becoming a baseball legend began with his debut in Major League Baseball (MLB). His rise to stardom was swift and impressive.

5. MLB Debut: Lou Gehrig made his MLB debut on June 15, 1923, with the New York Yankees. He played as a pinch hitter in his first game.

6. Iron Horse Nickname: Gehrig earned the nickname "The Iron Horse" due to his incredible durability and strength. He played in 2,130 consecutive games, a record that stood for 56 years.

7. First MVP Award: In 1927, Gehrig won his first American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. That year, he hit 47 home runs and had 175 runs batted in (RBIs).

8. Triple Crown Winner: In 1934, Gehrig achieved the Triple Crown, leading the league in batting average, home runs, and RBIs. He batted .363, hit 49 home runs, and had 165 RBIs.

Personal Life and Character

Beyond his athletic prowess, Gehrig was known for his character and personal life, which endeared him to fans and teammates alike.

9. Marriage to Eleanor Twitchell: Gehrig married Eleanor Twitchell on September 29, 1933. Their marriage was a strong and supportive partnership.

10. Humble and Modest: Despite his fame, Gehrig remained humble and modest. He was known for his quiet demeanor and strong work ethic.

11. Philanthropy: Gehrig was involved in various charitable activities, often visiting hospitals and supporting children's causes.

12. Friendship with Babe Ruth: Although their relationship had ups and downs, Gehrig and Babe Ruth were teammates and friends. They formed one of the most formidable duos in baseball history.

The Illness and Legacy

Gehrig's career and life took a dramatic turn with the onset of a debilitating illness, but his legacy continues to inspire.

13. ALS Diagnosis: In 1939, Gehrig was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. The illness forced him to retire from baseball.

14. Farewell Speech: On July 4, 1939, Gehrig delivered his famous farewell speech at Yankee Stadium. He declared himself "the luckiest man on the face of the earth," despite his diagnosis.

15. Jersey Number Retirement: The Yankees retired Gehrig's jersey number 4 on the day of his farewell speech. He was the first MLB player to receive this honor.

16. Hall of Fame Induction: In 1939, Gehrig was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame through a special election. His induction recognized his extraordinary contributions to the sport.

17. Gehrig's Disease: ALS is often referred to as "Lou Gehrig's Disease" in his honor. His battle with the illness brought significant attention to the condition.

18. Death: Lou Gehrig passed away on June 2, 1941, at the age of 37. His death marked the end of a remarkable life and career.

19. Legacy in Film: Gehrig's life was immortalized in the 1942 film "The Pride of the Yankees," starring Gary Cooper. The film remains a classic portrayal of his life and career.

20. Annual ALS Awareness: Every year, Major League Baseball holds events to raise awareness and funds for ALS research, continuing Gehrig's legacy of courage and resilience.

Lou Gehrig's Legacy Lives On

Lou Gehrig's impact on baseball and beyond is undeniable. Known as the "Iron Horse," he set records that still stand today, like his 2,130 consecutive games played. His career batting average of .340 and 493 home runs showcase his incredible talent. Gehrig's farewell speech, delivered on July 4, 1939, remains one of the most moving moments in sports history. Diagnosed with ALS, the disease now bears his name, raising awareness and funding for research. Gehrig's humility, strength, and sportsmanship continue to inspire athletes and fans alike. His legacy isn't just about stats; it's about character and resilience. Lou Gehrig's story reminds us that true greatness comes from how we face life's challenges. His memory lives on, not just in the record books, but in the hearts of those who admire his courage and dedication.