Orlando Cepeda

Date of birth: 17 September 1937
Primary position: Designated Hitter

Elected to Baseball Hall of Fame: 1999

Career Batting Statistics through 2018 Season

SeasonABRHHRRBIBBSBAVG
1973550511592086500.289
TOTAL550511592086500.289

Memorable Moments for Orlando Cepeda

  • 18 January 1973 - Veteran first baseman Orlando Cepeda signs with the Red Sox with the intent of being the team's designated hitter, the first player to be signed by a team exclusively for that role.
  • 6 April 1973 - Orlando Cepeda, signed specifically for this role, goes 0-for-6 as the designated hitter rule debuts in the American League, but Boston thrashes New York 15-5 on Opening Day at Fenway Park. The game also features Carlton Fisk's first career grand slam.
  • 8 April 1973 - Orlando Cepeda's first hit as a designated hitter is a walk-off home run for the Red Sox as Boston wins 4-3 over New York at Fenway Park.