Cal Ripken's incredible major league record streak of starting in 2,632 consecutive games since May 30, 1982, is over.
The Baltimore Orioles third baseman pulled himself from the starting lineup for Sunday night's game against the New York Yankees, telling manager Ray Miller, "I think the time is right."A source in the Orioles organization said Ripken would not play, which would end his streak of appearing in 2,632 straight games. Ripken, through the Orioles, said he was not hurt.
Ripken walked into Miller's office before the game and asked to have his name removed from the lineup. Rookie Ryan Minor started in his place.
One out into the game, when it became evident that Ripken would not be playing, all of the Yankees walked to the top step of the dugout, stood and applauded.
Ripken emerged from the Orioles dugout, tipped his hat toward the Yankees and stepped back down to the bench.