SAN FRANCISCO – When the Boston Red Sox called Orlando Cepeda in December 1972 to inquire whether he would like to be their first designated hitter, the unemployed, future Hall of Famer signed up immediately.
He just had no idea exactly what he would be doing in the new gig out East. The experiment worked out beautifully for Cepeda, who played 142 games that season — the second-to-last in a decorated 17-year major league career. The Athletics had released him only months after acquiring him from Atlanta.
The DH is 40 years old this season, and Cepeda is headed to Boston next month to help celebrate the anniversary. He will be recognized at Fenway Park on May 8.
The 75-year-old "Baby Bull" also will visit hospitals to support victims of the marathon bombings.
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