Every MLB team’s Mount Rushmore
Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles’ best days came during the 1960’s through mid 1990’s. This list reflects that. Anytime you have to leave an MLB Hall of Famer off a franchise’s Mount Rushmore, you know it’s a great one.
Cal Ripken Jr is one of the greatest shortstops in baseball history. He’s the franchise leader in almost every category you can think up. Ripken spent his entire 21 season career with the Orioles. Of course, many know him as the “Iron Man” because of his 2,632 consecutive games played. But Ripken was also an outstanding defensive shortstop who, in hindsight, should have won far more than just two Gold Gloves. He also won two American League Most Valuable Player Awards.
Frank Robinson is the guy who made the Orioles World Series Champions in 1966. Before acquiring him in a trade, Baltimore was a good, but not great, team. They needed a power hitter to build their lineup around and Frank was precisely what they needed. He won the Triple Crown in 1966, winning the AL MVP that season as well. Robinson’s six seasons with the Orioles deserves an exception to the eight-year rule.
Brooks Robinson is the most popular player in franchise history. The “Human Vacuum Cleaner” won the 1964 AL MVP award and an unprecedented 16 consecutive Gold Gloves at third base. Anytime the Orioles round-up their legends at Camden Yards, Robinson gets the loudest and longest standing ovation.
Earl Weaver was the heart and soul of the Orioles from 1968 to 1982 and from 1985 to 1986. With him as their manager, the team won four American League Pennants and the 1970 World Series. Weaver is considered a pioneer among managers, popularizing the platoon and proving to be ahead of his time with his disdain of bunting. Easily one of the most loved and celebrated Baltimore sports figures of all-time.
Gear up with this Cal Ripken Jr. jersey.
Honorable mentions: As terrific as Jim Palmer was, ask any Orioles fan. Weaver defines the franchise and is a more significant figure in franchise history than the handsome ace. Eddie Murray was a model of consistency.