Overview

Brooks Calbert Robinson Jr. (May 18, 1937 – September 26, 2023) was an American baseball player who spent his entire 23-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career as a third baseman for the Baltimore Orioles (1955–1977). Nicknamed “Mr. Hoover” and “the Human Vacuum Cleaner”, he is widely considered the greatest defensive third baseman in baseball history. An 18-time All-Star, he won 16 consecutive Gold Glove Awards (1960-1975), the most for any position player. In 1964, he was named AL Most Valuable Player. Robinson also excelled in the postseason, earning the World Series MVP award in 1970. Off the field, Robinson was praised for his modesty and graciousness, becoming a beloved figure in Baltimore, where he was known as “Mr. Oriole”. After retiring as an active player, Robinson became a television announcer for Orioles games and a motivational speaker. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1983.

What Is Brooks Robinson Net Worth?

At the time of his death on September 26, 2023, Brooks Robinson, the celebrated American professional baseball player, had a net worth of approximately $4 million. Robinson’s financial standing reflected a successful career primarily built on his baseball earnings and subsequent ventures.

Brooks Robinson’s Early Life and Baseball Beginnings

Brooks Calbert Robinson Jr. was born on May 18, 1937, in Little Rock, Arkansas. His father, Brooks Calbert Robinson Sr., worked for Colonial Bakery and later became a captain in the Little Rock Fire Department. His mother, Ethel Mae (née Denker), was employed by Sears Roebuck & Company before joining the state controller’s office. Even as a young boy, Robinson earned his own salary by delivering the Arkansas Gazette on his bicycle and managing the scoreboard and selling refreshments at Lamar Porter Field. Robinson’s father also played second base for a semi-pro baseball team, likely influencing his son’s early interest in the sport. After graduating from high school, Robinson signed a contract with the Baltimore Orioles, setting the stage for his illustrious career.

Details of Brooks Robinson’s Career and Earnings

Brooks Robinson dedicated his entire 23-year Major League Baseball (MLB) career to the Baltimore Orioles, debuting on September 17, 1955, and playing until August 13, 1977. Known as “Mr. Hoover” and “The Human Vacuum Cleaner” for his exceptional defensive skills, Robinson was an 18-time All-Star from 1960 to 1974 and a 16-time Gold Glove Award winner (1960-1975). He secured the American League (AL) MVP award in 1964 and the World Series MVP in 1970. In 1971, he became one of just 12 players earning over $100,000 annually. In 1967, Robinson signed a contract that boosted his salary from $54,000 to $75,000. Over his MLB career, it is estimated that Brooks Robinson made less than $1 million, earning only $35,000 during his 1970 MVP campaign. His career stats include a .267 batting average, 2,848 hits, 268 home runs and 1,357 RBIs in 10,654 at-bats.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Robinson’s career was marked by several significant milestones:

  • 18-time All-Star (1960–1974).
  • 2-time World Series champion (1966, 1970).
  • AL MVP (1964).
  • World Series MVP (1970).
  • 16-time Gold Glove Award (1960–1975).
  • Roberto Clemente Award (1972).
  • AL RBI leader (1964).
  • His Number 5 was retired by the Baltimore Orioles in 1978.
  • Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1983.

Post-Baseball Career and Investments

After retiring from professional baseball, Robinson remained active in the sports community. He served as president of the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association and later as a special advisor to the Orioles. In 2007, baseball fans named Robinson the best defensive third baseman of all time in balloting conducted by Rawlings. Robinson was also part of the ownership group that created the York Revolution, Southern Maryland Blue Crabs and Lancaster Barnstormers, contributing to the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Furthermore, Robinson co-owned a group of minor-league teams. He served on the Board of Directors for the National Baseball Hall of Fame and the Major League Players Alumni Association. Additionally, a Brooks Robinson is listed as Vice President – Investments at Synovus Securities, Inc., though it is unconfirmed if this is the same Brooks Robinson.

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