MLB Honors Lou Gehrig's Legacy on the 4th Annual Lou Gehrig Day
ICARO Media Group
Gehrig, famously known as the Iron Horse, achieved an extraordinary career with the New York Yankees, setting records and leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
On June 2, 1925, a young 21-year-old Gehrig took over the first baseman position from veteran Wally Pipp, beginning a streak of 2,130 consecutive games without a day off. This feat earned him the nickname "Iron Horse" and marked the start of a remarkable career in baseball history.
Tragically, Gehrig's career was cut short when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive disease that affects the body's motor neurons, resulting in voluntary muscle contraction loss. On June 2, 1941, Gehrig passed away, leaving a lasting legacy both on and off the field.
In recognition of Gehrig's contributions and to raise awareness about ALS, MLB established Lou Gehrig Day, which took place on June 2, 2021. The league, along with all 30 clubs, has actively supported various ALS-focused organizations over the years, dedicated to raising funds and spreading awareness about the disease.
Sarah Langs, a renowned MLB researcher and reporter, has been an inspiring figure in the baseball world, showing unwavering determination as she battles ALS. Langs, in a heartfelt video message played in stadiums across the Major Leagues, expressed her gratitude for the support of MLB and each team in her own personal fight against the disease.
Throughout the years, MLB has demonstrated commitment to the ALS community through various initiatives. In 2009, they launched the "4-ALS" campaign to raise funds for four ALS organizations, commemorating the 70th anniversary of Gehrig's retirement speech. MLB players actively participated in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge in 2014, raising millions of dollars for ALS research. The league also supported the ALS Association's "Home Health Initiative" in 2017 and raised funds for five ALS organizations during the Winter Meetings Charity Auction in 2019.
To honor Gehrig's memory on Lou Gehrig Day, MLB players, managers, coaches, and umpires donned uniform decals featuring the number 4, symbolizing Gehrig's jersey number throughout his illustrious career. In addition, red "4-ALS" wristbands were made available for players to wear during games, and commemorative base jewels and lineup cards were implemented as well.
The partnership between MLB and the ALS community grows stronger each year, inspired by the fortitude exhibited by those battling the disease. Sarah Langs, with the support of MLB and devoted fans, remains hopeful that a cure for ALS will one day be found.
As the baseball world commemorated the 4th annual Lou Gehrig Day, it served as a reminder of Gehrig's remarkable career, his courageous battle with ALS, and the ongoing efforts in the fight against this devastating disease. MLB's commitment to the ALS cause remains unwavering, as they continue to honor Gehrig's memory and contribute towards finding a cure.