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Who Holds The Record?
The record for most consecutive games played in MLB history is held by Cal Ripken, Jr., who played 2,632 straight games throughout his 21-year career. Ripken’s streak began on May 30, 1982, and concluded on September 19, 1998.
During that time, he became one of the most celebrated players in the game, setting numerous other records along the way. While Ripken’s streak is unlikely to be broken, it remains one of the most impressive feats in baseball history.
Beating “The Iron Horse” Lou Gherig
On June 2, 1939, Lou Gehrig played his 2,130th consecutive game. Gehrig’s streak ended two days later when he took himself out of the lineup, aware that he had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This degenerative disease would ultimately claim his life.
During his 17-year career with the New York Yankees, Gehrig established himself as one of the greatest players in baseball history. His streak of 2,130 consecutive games played is considered one of the most unbreakable records in sports. Gherig was a six-time World Series champion and two-time MVP, earning the nickname “The Iron Horse” for his durability.
Gehrig’s streak began on June 1, 1925, when he started at first base against the Washington Senators. It would eventually include 2,130 consecutive games played, a record that stood for 56 years until Cal Ripken Jr. broke it in 1995.
Ripken’s Consecutive Games Record Will Never Be Broken
It is widely accepted that Cal Ripken Jr’s record of 2,632 consecutive games played will never be broken. There are several reasons why this is the case.
1. Incredibly Durable Player: He missed 16 games over his 21-year career, an astonishing feat. But it’s not just that he didn’t miss many games; he rarely even came close to missing a game. In his last 11 seasons, Ripken played in all 162 games ten times. He still played in 160 out of 162 games the one time he didn’t.
2. His Work Ethic and Commitment To Staying In Shape: He was famously known for his “no days off” approach to his training regimen, which kept him in peak physical condition throughout his career.
3. His Production: Ripken was one of the best players in baseball during his time, winning two AL MVP Awards and being named to 19 All-Star teams. He was also a key contributor to the Orioles team that won the World Series in 1983.
In short, Ripken was a once-in-a-generation player, both on and off the field. And that’s why his consecutive games played streak is so unlikely ever to be broken.
