Last Updated: March 20th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1914: Rube Waddell’s Passing
Rube Waddell, a unique character of the game known for his unparalleled left-handed pitching, passed away on April 1, 1914. He lost his life to tuberculosis, following efforts to help during a disastrous flood in Kentucky. His colorful legacy, marked by his vibrant antics and exceptional skill on the mound, remains etched in baseball history.
1963: Duke Snider Returns to New York
Baseball legend Duke Snider made a triumphant return to the Big Apple in 1963 when the New York Mets welcomed him back into the fold from the Los Angeles Dodgers. The deal, valued at $40,000, reignited excitement among New Yorkers, who nostalgically remembered Snider’s glory days as the “Duke of Flatbush.” Snider’s homecoming was not just a boost for fans but also a strategic move by the Mets, hoping to harness his veteran prowess for the budding team.
1969: Lou Piniella Traded to Royals
On April 1, 1969, the Seattle Pilots traded Lou Piniella to the Kansas City Royals, significantly altering his career trajectory. Piniella quickly made his mark with the Royals, and was named the American League Rookie of the Year. His time with the Royals kicked off with an iconic moment as he became the first player to bat for the franchise, setting the stage for a celebrated career in Major League Baseball.
View the complete trade history of Lou Piniella.
1970: The Pilots Become The Brewers
On April 1, 1970, a crucial transaction in baseball history took place when the ownership of the Seattle Pilots was transferred to a Milwaukee-based group. This group was spearheaded by Bud Selig, who would later become the Commissioner of Major League Baseball. The transaction occurred following intense negotiations and the Pilots’ subsequent bankruptcy, marking a significant change as the team relocated to become the Milwaukee Brewers, a name that resonates with Wisconsin’s brewing heritage. The inception of the Brewers came just one day before the start of the 1970 MLB season, setting a swift pace for the fledgling team’s integration into the league.
1980: Players’ Association Votes to Strike
In an unprecedented move on April 1, 1980, the Major League Baseball Players’ Association demonstrated unity by voting unanimously to halt all remaining spring training games. The players set forth a deadline for a work stoppage, applying pressure for a new labor deal. Their unified stance underlined the seriousness of their quest for a fair collective bargaining agreement.
1987: Andy Van Slyke Traded to Pittsburgh
On April 1, 1987, the St. Louis Cardinals traded outfielder Andy Van Slyke, along with catcher Mike LaValliere and pitcher Mike Dunne, to the Pittsburgh Pirates. This exchange brought All-Star catcher Tony Peña to the Cardinals. Andy Van Slyke, known for his defensive prowess and consistent bat, became a key player for the Pirates, enhancing their competitiveness through the late ’80s and early ’90s.
1996: Death of Umpire John McSherry
On April 1, 1996, the baseball community was shaken by the sudden loss of experienced National League umpire John McSherry. He suffered a fatal heart attack on the field, leading to an immediate stoppage and subsequent postponement of the opening day game after just seven pitches.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
This section celebrates the births of notable Major League Baseball players who have made significant contributions to the sport.
1915: Jeff Heath
Jeff Heath distinguished himself as a powerful left fielder who led the AL in triples twice during the late 1930s and early 1940s.
1936: Ron Perranoski
Relief pitcher Ron Perranoski was instrumental in the bullpen, helping the Los Angeles Dodgers to World Series victories in 1963 and 1965. He later excelled as a pitching coach.
1939: Phil Niekro
Phil Niekro, born on April 1, 1939, was an exceptional knuckleball pitcher with a career that spanned 24 seasons, mostly with the Atlanta Braves. He ended his career with 318 wins, earning him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
1944: Rusty Staub
Rusty Staub became an acclaimed hitter known for his skill and consistency at the plate. “Le Grand Orange” was beloved in Montreal and made six All-Star game appearances.