html
Baltimore Mourns the Loss of Orioles Legend Brooks Robinson
Growing up in Baltimore in the late 20th century meant knowing countless Brookses. Whether it was the determined Little League player wearing the number 5, the friend from the neighborhood, or the class clown, Brooks was a name that brought a smile to everyone’s faces. Even now, when Cals have outnumbered them on the playgrounds, meeting an occasional Brooks still brings about a sense of familiarity.
“We don’t name candy bars after Brooks Robinson here,” remarked Baltimore-based sportswriter R. Gordon Beard in 1977, comparing the confection named for New York Yankees slugger Reggie Jackson. “We name our children for him.”
Celebrities may not always be deserving of accolades, but Baltimore Orioles legend Brooks Robinson, who passed away at the age of 86, was undoubtedly worthy of the honor. Baltimoreans of a certain age can recite his impressive achievements by heart- his 23 seasons in an Orioles uniform, 18 all-star appearances, and 16 Gold Gloves as the greatest defensive third baseman in history. He was the beloved figure of the most successful era in Orioles history, where they clinched four World Series and won two of them from 1966 to 1974.
Robinson’s Hall of Fame plaque in Cooperstown, N.Y. proudly states, “Established modern standard of excellence for third basemen.”
Robinson earned the nicknames “Brooksie” and the “Human Vacuum Cleaner” for his remarkable fielding skills and personable nature. Even after retiring from his playing career, he remained a kind, generous, and humble man who represented the Orioles franchise long after his retirement. Residents of Baltimore who failed to shake his hand only have themselves to blame, as Robinson was always eager to meet his devoted fans.
Avid fans often named their children after the legendary player, resulting in numerous letters arriving at Memorial Stadium addressed to Robinson. Each letter received an autographed photograph along with a warm message, acknowledging the honor of sharing a name and expressing hope for a future meeting. Some letters came from far away, while others were simply walked over from the Orioles’ former home at 33rd Street.
Robinson once remarked, “I’ve even had a few dogs named after me.” In 2019, a Baltimore television station held a “Puppy With a Purpose” campaign, allowing viewers to vote on the name of a new pup. The winning name, with 117,000 votes, was Brooks.
While it may not be entirely accurate to say that Brooks Robinson was synonymous with the Orioles, he undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the hearts of fans. Arriving in Baltimore in 1954, just a year before the team, Robinson quickly became the face of the franchise and the city. His exceptional fielding skills and compassionate nature always stood out- traits he exhibited from his early encounter with a nervous Boog Powell, where he assured the player’s father that he would look after his son.
Orioles fans who witnessed the 1970 World Series will never forget Robinson’s exceptional performances at the plate and on third base. Even those too young to witness it firsthand were regaled with stories of his MVP-winning performance by their elders.
Robinson’s retirement in 1977 was a reflection of his gracefulness. Recognizing his declining skills at the age of 40 and the nearing return of several injured players, he humbly retired before a game in Minnesota. Weeks later, the Orioles honored him with a special day in Baltimore, aptly named “Thanks, Brooks.”
Robinson and his wife, Connie, made Baltimore their semi-permanent home. He owned local businesses and endeared himself to fans as a color commentator during Orioles telecasts. The influx of Brookses never stopped, including a young hockey player named Brooks Laich, who had the privilege of meeting his namesake at a memorabilia show in 2013. Describing the encounter as life-changing, Laich praised Robinson for his humble and genuine nature.
Last year, the Orioles celebrated the 45th anniversary of Robinson’s retirement with another “Thanks, Brooks” Day at Camden Yards. Fans held up signs throughout the stadium expressing their gratitude “From one Brooks to another.” As the Orioles move forward with a promising future on the field, they will pay tribute to a man who has been a source of inspiration for generations of fans in Baltimore.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
