Gehrig was renowned for his prowess as a hitter and for his durability, which earned him his nickname ' the Iron Horse'. Henry Louis Gehrig (born Heinrich Ludwig Gehrig June 19, 1903 – June 2, 1941) was an American professional baseball first baseman who played 17 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the New York Yankees (1923–1939). Hit 4 home runs in one game on June 3, 1932.