Cal Ripken Jr. reveals lingering resentment towards Alex Rodriguez’s gesture during the 2001 MLB All-Star Game

The baseball legend admits to being "kind of pissed" at Alex Rodriguez for persuading him to change positions in 2001.

Cal Ripken Jr. reveals lingering resentment towards Alex Rodriguez’s gesture during the 2001 MLB All-Star Game

Alex Rodriguez and Cal Ripken Jr. [Credit: Fox]

In a recent interview, baseball icon Cal Ripken Jr. opened up about a moment that continues to be talked about even today, shedding light on his true feelings about a gesture made by Alex Rodriguez during the 2001 MLB All-Star Game. The incident occurred during Ripken’s farewell tour at the Midsummer Classic, and while Rodriguez’s intentions were undoubtedly noble, Ripken confessed that he was initially “kind of pissed” at the young shortstop.

During the FOX pregame show preceding the 2003 All-Star Game, Rodriguez, now retired, referenced the memorable moment when he convinced Ripken to relinquish his position at third base and play shortstop one last time. Reflecting on the situation, Ripken disclosed his initial reluctance, stating, “Now that you brought it back up, I was kind of pissed at you.”

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The legendary infielder shared his concerns about returning to shortstop after a lengthy absence and wearing a larger glove, known as the “humongous.” However, Ripken ultimately agreed to the position change, allowing Rodriguez to start at shortstop in a tribute to the Orioles veteran.

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In what was considered a classy gesture from one baseball great to another, Alex Rodriguez’s suggestion to have Cal Ripken Jr. play shortstop during the 2001 MLB All-Star Game is still remembered today. However, Ripken’s recent revelation about his initial reservations has sparked a renewed discussion surrounding the incident and provides a deeper insight into the dynamics between the two players at the time.

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Cal Ripken Jr.’s bittersweet reminiscence: A-Rod’s All-Star Game gesture

Cal Ripken Jr. and Alex Rodriguez
Cal Ripken Jr. and Alex Rodriguez [Credit: US Sun]

The 2001 MLB All-Star Game will forever be remembered for the heartwarming moment when Alex Rodriguez approached Cal Ripken Jr. with the proposition of playing shortstop one last time. Rodriguez, starting at shortstop for the American League, wanted to honor Ripken, who had spent the majority of his 21-year Hall-of-Fame career as a shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles before transitioning to third base.

Ripken’s farewell tour was already in full swing, and the All-Star Game provided a perfect platform to pay tribute to the beloved veteran. Despite Rodriguez’s genuine admiration and intentions, Ripken initially resisted the offer. He expressed concerns about the challenges of playing shortstop again after a significant break and having to handle a larger glove.

During the interview, Ripken admitted, “I said him now that you brought it back up, I was kind of pissed at you,” reflecting on his initial reaction to A-Rod’s gesture during the 2001 MLB All-Star Game. However, with the encouragement of AL All-Star manager Joe Torre and Rodriguez’s persistence, Ripken finally relented and made the switch, taking the field at shortstop one last time.

The memorable moment captured the attention of fans worldwide, as two baseball legends shared a unique bond of respect and sportsmanship on the grandest stage. Fans were amazed to relive this moment once again, as the video of the interview got viral on social media.

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