Iron Man makes pitch at Rays Spring Training, promotes new book

Cal Ripken Jr. racked up plenty of accolades during his Hall of Fame career -- 19 All-Star selections, two MVP Awards, Rookie of the Year honors, a World Series ring and the record for the most consecutive games played (2,632). But baseball's Iron Man is staying busy after hanging up his spikes.

Ripken appeared at Rays camp on Thursday to promote his latest book, "Squeeze Play." The novel is the fourth installment in the New York Times best-selling "Cal Ripken Jr.'s All-Stars" series.

The 53-year-old signed copies of his books, spoke with Rays employees, talked strategy with Joe Maddon and delivered the ceremonial first pitch to Evan Longoria before the game against the Pirates:

Charlotte Sports Park (home of Rays' spring baseball) also houses the club's Class-A Charlotte Stone Crabs -- a team owned by Ripken Baseball.