She also played an integral part in his on-field success.

“In June 1983, I hurt my wrist and I called my wife and asked her to hit the record button (on their videotape player),” he said. “Lucky for me, my wife said yes. From the time I came home from that trip to the day I retired, I was a big believer in video.”

“I would not be standing here today without video,” he said. “All of a sudden, it just opened a new avenue for me because I learned that at this level it’s about knowing what you do when you get in that batter’s box.”

Gwynn finished with 3,141 hits and won eight National League batting titles in a 20-year career with the San Diego Padres.

Even though he had 3,184 hits — including 431 home runs — was a two-time American League MVP and a 19-time All-Star, Ripken will always be known for his streak.

“I always looked at it as just showing up for work every day,” he said. “As I look out on this audience, I see thousands of people who do the same, teachers, police officers, mothers, fathers, business people and many others.

“You all may not receive the accolades that I have throughout my career, but I would like to take the time to salute all of you for showing up, working hard, and making the world a better place.”

Rick Hummel, longtime baseball writer for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, received the J.G. Spink Award for meritorious writing, and Royals announcer Denny Matthews received the Ford C. Frick Award for broadcasting excellence.

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