Lou Gehrig Day Commemorated in MLB
Special Day Honors Baseball Legend's Legacy
Annual Event Raises ALS Awareness
Major League Baseball (MLB) has established an annual Lou Gehrig Day to honor the legendary New York Yankees first baseman and raise awareness about amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurodegenerative disease. The inaugural Lou Gehrig Day will be held on June 2nd, 2023. "We are excited to announce an official annual Lou Gehrig Day across Major League Baseball that honors his legacy on the field and raises awareness," said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. "Lou Gehrig's indomitable spirit and perseverance are an inspiration to us all, and we hope that this day will help to bring attention to the fight against ALS." During Lou Gehrig Day, all 30 MLB teams will wear a special Lou Gehrig patch on their uniforms. In addition, many teams will host on-field ceremonies and other events to raise awareness about ALS and honor Gehrig's legacy. Gehrig, who was diagnosed with ALS in 1939, played 17 seasons for the Yankees and was one of the greatest players in baseball history. He was known for his incredible endurance and durability, and he holds the record for playing 2,130 consecutive games. Gehrig was forced to retire in 1939 when ALS began to affect his motor skills. He died two years later at the age of 37. The Lou Gehrig Day Committee does not have a specific fundraising goal, but any money raised will be donated to ALS research and support organizations. The establishment of an annual Lou Gehrig Day is a fitting tribute to one of baseball's most iconic figures. Gehrig's indomitable spirit and perseverance continue to inspire us all, and we hope that this day will help to bring attention to the fight against ALS.
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