BREAKING NEWS: It is Done Baltimore Orioles Legend Cal Ripken, Jr Returns as Co-Owner In a monumental, Baltimore Orioles owner David Rubenstein and his family has officially declared that Cal Ripken, Jr the legendary shortstop and third baseman and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as a co-owner..…view more

In a groundbreaking announcement that has electrified the city of Baltimore and reverberated throughout the baseball world, Orioles owner David Rubenstein and his family have officially welcomed franchise icon Cal Ripken Jr. back to the organization — this time, not as a player, but as a co-owner.

The announcement, made during a press conference this morning at Camden Yards, marks a historic moment in the club’s long and storied legacy. Ripken, who spent his entire 21-year Hall of Fame career with the Orioles, now returns in an executive capacity to help guide the future of the team he once carried on his shoulders.

“It is done. Cal is back, and this time he’s helping build the future,” said Rubenstein, who became principal owner earlier this year. “There is no one more synonymous with what it means to be an Oriole than Cal Ripken Jr.”

Ripken, 64, will join the ownership group ahead of the 2025 MLB season, fulfilling a long-held dream by fans and Orioles alumni alike to see “The Iron Man” reconnected with the club in a meaningful and influential role. While specific details of his investment and responsibilities have yet to be fully outlined, sources close to the organization say Ripken will play an active role in player development, community outreach, and the preservation of the team’s legacy.

A Homecoming Decades in the Making

Cal Ripken Jr. is not just a legend in Baltimore — he is the legend. Known for his record-breaking 2,632 consecutive games played, two AL MVP awards, and unmatched integrity on and off the field, Ripken became a national symbol of perseverance and professionalism. His impact transcended baseball and helped restore public trust in the sport after the 1994 MLB strike.

Today’s announcement comes nearly 24 years after Ripken’s final MLB game in 2001. Since his retirement, he has remained active in youth baseball development through the Ripken Foundation and Ripken Baseball, Inc., but had no official role within the Orioles — until now.

“I’ve always said Baltimore is home,” Ripken said during the announcement. “This organization, this city — it’s in my blood. I’m thrilled to be part of shaping its next chapter alongside David and the incredible team he’s building here.”

A New Era for the Orioles

Ripken’s return as co-owner signals a new era of continuity and tradition for a franchise currently undergoing a renaissance. After several rebuilding years, the Orioles have emerged as contenders with a young core of talent, including stars like Adley Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, and Jackson Holliday.

Rubenstein’s acquisition of the team earlier this year from the Angelos family was seen as a major turning point. His leadership, combined with Ripken’s influence, is expected to create a powerful blend of business acumen, baseball knowledge, and Baltimore pride.

Fan Reaction: Pure Euphoria

Within minutes of the announcement, social media platforms exploded with joy from Orioles fans, many of whom had long campaigned for Ripken to take a greater role in the franchise’s future. Camden Yards, already known as one of the most beloved stadiums in MLB, is expected to see a surge in ticket sales and fan engagement.

One lifelong fan summed it up perfectly on X (formerly Twitter):

“The Iron Man is back. Not on the field — but in the owner’s box. Baltimore feels whole again.”

As the Orioles look toward 2025 and beyond, one thing is clear: the spirit of Cal Ripken Jr. is once again woven into the heart of the franchise. And for Orioles fans — that’s nothing short of a dream fulfilled.