The Baltimore Orioles inducted four new members into the franchise’s Hall of Fame this past weekend
While the most recent series against the Tampa Bay Rays wasn’t a success for the Baltimore Orioles, the fans at Saturday’s game at Camden Yards got to see some fan favorites as the ceremony took place for the new Hall of Fame inductees.
Former shortstop J.J. Hardy, outfielder Mike Devereaux, broadcaster Joe Angel, and Baltimore superfan Mo Gaba were all enshrined to the Orioles’ Hall of Fame during the weekend festivities.
J.J. HARDY
If you are a follower of the Baltimore Orioles or followed the team during their most recent playoff runs, then you have more than likely heard of J.J. Hardy. Hardy suited up for the O’s for seven seasons, in which he amassed 107 home runs and 385 RBIs. During his tenure in Baltimore, J.J. was awarded three Gold Glove Awards, one Silver Slugger Award, and made one All-Star appearance as a shortstop.
An absolute staple for the Baltimore Orioles between 2011 to 2017, number 2 played with heart and soul that resonated throughout the ballpark. The way fans would shout, “J! J! HAARRDYY!” before every home-at-bat will forever be remembered as one of Baltimore baseball’s greatest calling cards.
MIKE DEVEREAUX
The centerfielder from Casper, Wyoming played for the Orioles for seven years. While in an Orioles’ uniform, Devereaux compiled 94 home runs, 403 RBIs, and posted a .251 batting average. The Arizona State University alumni finished seventh in the 1992 MVP race, making his case with 24 home runs and 107 RBIs.
From his entrance at Camden Yards to his last year with the O’s in 1996, Deveraux managed the outfield and was consistently putting together solid at-bats. In his later years, he was not always known as an everyday player but in 1996 he played a key role in helping the Baltimore Orioles make the playoffs.
JOE ANGEL
Angel served as a broadcaster for the Baltimore Orioles on three different occasions, first from 1988-1990, then came back for a season in 1992, and finally returning for the long haul in 2004 until his retirement in 2019.
He worked for various organizations in Major League Baseball such as the San Francisco Giants, Oakland Athletics, Minnesota Twins, New York Yankees, Florida Marlins, and the Baltimore Orioles. Joe was known for his upbeat personality and ability to engage fans with his words.
MO GABA
Mossila “Mo” Gaba, was a Baltimore Orioles and Ravens superfan that tragically passed away at the age of 14 after four battles with cancer. Mo called into the local Baltimore radio sports station on a daily basis to share his knowledge and passion for Baltimore sports.
Mo Gaba became a household name and inspiration for the Baltimore Orioles. He lifted morale with his spirit and inspired a city and team with his strength through adversity. A recipient of the William “Wild Bill” Hagy Award is for the fan who has inspired others with their devotion to the team and demonstrated an exceptional commitment in support of the Orioles. Now Mr. Gaba is a member of the Orioles’ Hall of Fame.
The names and faces of each member of the Orioles Hall of Fame are found on the brick wall along the Eutaw Street walkway at Oriole Park at Camden Yards.