Lou Gehrig: The Iron Horse of Baseball

Lou Gehrig was one of the greatest baseball players of all time. He was a seven-time All-Star, a two-time World Series champion, and a lifetime .340 hitter. Gehrig was also known for his incredible durability, playing in 2,130 consecutive games. His streak was finally broken in 1939 when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Gehrig died two years later at the age of 37.

Lou Gehrig (Baseball Superstars)

by Ronald A. Reis

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4119 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages

FREE

Despite his tragic illness, Gehrig's legacy lives on. He is remembered as one of the greatest players in baseball history, and his story continues to inspire generations of fans.

Early Life

Lou Gehrig was born on June 19, 1903, in New York City. He was the son of German immigrants, and he grew up in a working-class family. Gehrig was a natural athlete, and he excelled in baseball from a young age. He played on his high school baseball team, and he was recruited by several colleges to play baseball.

Gehrig decided to attend Columbia University, where he played baseball for the Lions. He was a star player for Columbia, and he helped the Lions win the Eastern Intercollegiate Baseball League championship in 1923.

Professional Career

After graduating from Columbia, Gehrig signed a contract with the New York Yankees. He made his major league debut in 1925, and he quickly became one of the best players in the league. Gehrig was a powerful hitter, and he was also a good fielder. He was a key member of the Yankees' "Murderers' Row" lineup, which included Babe Ruth, Tony Lazzeri, and Bill Dickey.

Gehrig helped the Yankees win six World Series championships during his career. He was also a seven-time All-Star, and he was the American League Most Valuable Player in 1927 and 1936.

Iron Horse

Gehrig was known for his incredible durability. He played in 2,130 consecutive games, which is a record that still stands today. Gehrig's streak began on June 1, 1925, and it ended on May 2, 1939.

Gehrig's durability was due to his strong work ethic and his dedication to the game. He was also fortunate to avoid any serious injuries during his career.

ALS

In 1939, Gehrig was diagnosed with ALS, a fatal neurodegenerative disease. ALS affects the motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, and it eventually leads to paralysis.

Gehrig's diagnosis was a devastating blow to him and to his family. He knew that his career was over, and he knew that he would eventually die from the disease.

Despite his illness, Gehrig remained positive. He continued to work out and to attend Yankees games. He also became a spokesman for ALS research.

Gehrig died on June 2, 1941, at the age of 37. He was survived by his wife, Eleanor, and his two children.

Legacy

Lou Gehrig is remembered as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. He is a member of the Baseball Hall of Fame, and his number (4) has been retired by the New York Yankees.

Gehrig's story is an inspiration to generations of fans. He showed that anything is possible with hard work and dedication. He also showed that even in the face of adversity, it is important to remain positive and to never give up hope.

Lou Gehrig was a true baseball legend. He was a great player, a great teammate, and a great role model. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of fans for years to come.

Lou Gehrig (Baseball Superstars)

by Ronald A. Reis

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4119 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages

FREE