Every year, the Sunday were the greats of the diamond receive their "pass" into the Hall of Fame, is special. This year was no different with the inducting of Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gwynn. Both were great ball players and arguably better men. Cal is best known for his dethroning of the timeless "Iron Man" streak. In 1993, America watched as Cal passed Lou Gehrig for the all-time consecutive games played streak of 2,130. The streak ended at a ridiculous 2,632 games and was only one of the many accomplishments Cal accrued during his career. The 19-time All-Star, twice AL MVP, will also go down as one the best at his positions: ranking only behind Mr. Cub Ernie Banks for most home runs hit by a shortstop (431).
Just like Cal, Tony Gwynn played his entire career for one team. The lifelong Padre also racked up the stats. Gwynn will be considered one of the best pure hitters, not a power guy, but a contact hitter that could go to all fields with any pitch. In 20 seasons, Tony had only one year under a .300 BA, and that was his rookie year and it was a not so shabby .289. He won the NL batting title eight times and was a member of the prestigious 3,000 hit club.
Cooperstown gets two very worthy new hall monitors.
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