Lou Gehrig

Lou Gehrig was an American professional baseball player best known as a first baseman for the New York Yankees and one of the sport’s greatest hitters.

Lou Gehrig was an American professional baseball player best known as a first baseman for the New York Yankees and one of the sport’s greatest hitters. He was nicknamed the “Iron Horse” for his durability and played in 2,130 consecutive games, a Major League Baseball record that stood for 56 years. Gehrig’s career ended after he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which later became widely known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Early life

Gehrig was born in New York City to German immigrant parents and grew up in a working-class family. He attended Columbia University before beginning his professional baseball career.

Major League career

Gehrig became one of baseball’s most productive hitters with the Yankees, contributing to multiple championship teams. He was known for power, durability, and consistent run production, including his 1934 Triple Crown season.

Consecutive games streak

From 1925 to 1939, Gehrig played in 2,130 consecutive games, earning the nickname “The Iron Horse.” The streak became one of the most famous records in baseball history.

Illness and retirement

Gehrig’s playing career ended in 1939 after doctors diagnosed him with ALS. The disease later became commonly associated with his name in the United States.

Legacy

Gehrig remains a central figure in baseball history because of his performance, durability, and public farewell speech. He is widely remembered as one of the greatest first basemen and hitters in the sport.