Lou Gehrig’s legacy in baseball was well acknowledged during his lifetime. When Gehrig’s career was cut short by his diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in 1939, the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) acted decisively to honor his contributions to the sport. Just 221 days after Gehrig’s final game, a special election at the 1939 Winter Meetings in Cincinnati cemented his place in baseball history by inducting him into the Hall of Fame.
On May 2, 1939, Lou Gehrig voluntarily removed himself from the New York Yankees lineup, ending his record-breaking streak of 2,130 consecutive games. His performance had been declining, a change later understood to be linked to the then-undiagnosed ALS. Despite what was considered a subpar season, Gehrig managed a .295 average with 29 home runs in 1938, a strong performance under the shadow of his illness.
Gehrig’s ALS diagnosis came on June 19, 1939, his 36th birthday. Shortly after, the Yankees announced his retirement. On July 4, Gehrig delivered his famous ‘Luckiest Man’ speech at Yankee Stadium, marking a poignant farewell to his fans and the sport.
The Hall of Fame had just opened its doors in Cooperstown, New York, a week before Gehrig’s diagnosis. Established three years prior, the Hall recognized baseball’s elite, with notable figures like Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth among its first inductees. By 1939, Willie Keeler, George Sisler, and Eddie Collins joined the ranks, but the regular BBWAA elections paused until 1942.
Realizing Gehrig’s extraordinary contributions and the abrupt end to his career, the BBWAA called a special election during the Winter Meetings on December 7, 1939. Gehrig’s induction was without precedent, as it occurred without the usual waiting period, reflecting his unique impact on the game.
At retirement, Gehrig was second in career home runs, with 493, and had a remarkable career average. His exceptional World Series record and unbroken Iron Man streak, later surpassed by Cal Ripken Jr., underscored his legacy.
Gehrig passed away on June 2, 1941, but his 1939 induction allowed him to be a Hall of Famer during his lifetime. Alongside other posthumous inductees, Gehrig was honored on July 28, 2013, in Cooperstown. Major League Baseball’s 2021 designation of June 2 as Lou Gehrig Day continues to celebrate his life and raise awareness for ALS.
Lou Gehrig’s special election to the Hall of Fame stands as a testament to his exceptional impact on baseball. His achievements and grace in the face of adversity continue to inspire players and fans alike, ensuring his legacy endures.
