Meaning: The quote "Striking out Ruth and Gehrig in succession was too big an order" is attributed to Carl Hubbell, a legendary baseball player who played for the New York Giants. This quote encapsulates a remarkable achievement in the history of baseball, as it refers to a specific moment in the 1934 Major League Baseball All-Star Game.

Carl Hubbell, known as "King Carl" or "The Meal Ticket," was a left-handed pitcher renowned for his extraordinary talent and skill on the mound. His ability to dominate hitters with his screwball and impeccable control made him a feared opponent. However, it was his performance in the 1934 All-Star Game that solidified his place in baseball history and gave rise to this iconic quote.

The 1934 All-Star Game was held at the Polo Grounds in New York City, home of the Giants. The American League lineup included two of the most fearsome hitters in the game at that time: Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, both of the New York Yankees. Ruth, often referred to as the "Sultan of Swat," was known for his prodigious home run hitting, while Gehrig, known as the "Iron Horse," was a consistent and powerful hitter in his own right.

In the first inning of the All-Star Game, Carl Hubbell faced the formidable task of pitching to Ruth and Gehrig in succession. What transpired next was nothing short of legendary. Hubbell managed to strike out both Ruth and Gehrig, back-to-back, using his devastating screwball to outwit and outmaneuver these two titans of the game. This incredible feat sent shockwaves through the baseball world and solidified Hubbell's reputation as one of the greatest pitchers of his era.

The significance of this moment cannot be overstated. To strike out two of the most dominant hitters in baseball history in succession was a remarkable achievement, one that has been immortalized in the annals of the sport. It showcased not only Hubbell's exceptional pitching prowess but also his composure and mental fortitude in the face of such a daunting challenge.

The quote "Striking out Ruth and Gehrig in succession was too big an order" reflects the awe and disbelief that this feat inspired. It underscores the magnitude of the task that Hubbell accomplished and serves as a testament to the sheer difficulty of such an accomplishment. Even for a pitcher of Hubbell's caliber, the challenge of facing and besting Ruth and Gehrig in succession was a daunting prospect.

This quote has endured as a symbol of excellence and achievement in the world of sports. It serves as a reminder of the extraordinary moments that define the careers of exceptional athletes and the impact they have on the collective imagination of fans. Carl Hubbell's feat continues to inspire awe and admiration, and his quote stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of that unforgettable All-Star Game performance.