RELATED LINKS Book Excerpts » The Ripken Way, by Cal Ripken, Sr. » Cal Ripken's Streak from Home of the Game by Thom Loverro » "Cal had the appearance of a stern man who could be a real grouch, but he was just the opposite": Jim Ksicinski » Dalkowski from From 33rd Street to Camden Yards

Ripken, a long-time Orioles coach, filled in as manager for one game in 1985 and then took over from Earl Weaver after the team's 1986 collapse. Lacking the talent to field a respectable team, he finished last in 1987 and, with tears in his eyes, was forced by ownership to end son Cal Jr.'s consecutive-innings streak, but was able to make son Billy the regular second baseman in the second half of the season. Cal Sr. was fired after the Orioles lost the first six games of the 1988 season. They went on to lose a ML-record 21 before finally registering a victory. Ripken rejoined the club in his old coaching role in 1989. (SFS)

FROM THE BASEBALL CHRONOLOGY » October 6, 1986: The Orioles announce that 3B coach Cal Ripken, Sr., father of star SS Cal Ripken, Jr., will manage the club in 1987. » July 11, 1987: Billy Ripken, 22, joins his brother Cal Ripken in the Orioles starting lineup in Baltimore's 2–1 loss to the Twins. Orioles manager Cal Ripken, Sr. is the first to manage two sons in the majors. » April 12, 1988: After leading his club to an 0-6 start, Orioles manager Cal Ripken Sr. is fired and replaced by Frank Robinson. Ripken was 68-101 since taking over for Earl Weaver last season. » April 23, 1991: Manager Nick Leyva is fired by the Phillies after just 13 games, and replaced by Jim Fregosi. It is the second-fastest firing in major league history. Cal Ripken Sr. was fired by Baltimore after six games in 1988. Under Fregosi, the Phils lose their 10th in 14 games, dropping a 2–1 decision to the Mets. Jason Grimsley is the loser as both Mets score on walks.