Last Updated: April 3rd, 2024 by Jake Cain
1918: Babe Ruth’s Opening Day Victory
On April 15, 1918, Babe Ruth led the Boston Red Sox to a commanding 7-1 win against the Philadelphia Athletics. Ruth showcased a stellar performance from the mound, allowing only four hits throughout the game. This triumph also marked the beginning of his transformation from a star pitcher to one of baseball’s most legendary sluggers as he began taking on more roles as an outfielder.
1947: Jackie Robinson’s Debut
On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball’s color barrier, becoming the first African American to play in a 20th-century MLB game. Although he didn’t register a hit, Robinson’s performance at first base was solid, contributing to the Brooklyn Dodgers‘ 5-3 triumph over the Boston Braves. The team was steered to victory under the guidance of interim manager Clyde Sukeforth, marking a historic moment not just in sports, but in the American civil rights movement as well.
1954: Clint Courtney’s Memorial Stadium Homer
On April 15, 1954, Clint Courtney made history by hitting the inaugural major league home run at Baltimore’s Memorial Stadium. Clint Courtney’s name became forever etched in Orioles’ lore, as he helped set the tone for the team’s performance in their new home.
1958: Seals Stadium’s First Major League Game
On April 15, 1958, a new chapter began for Major League Baseball in California as the San Francisco Giants hosted the Los Angeles Dodgers at Seals Stadium. This historic venue witnessed the Giants dominating the game, taking it with a decisive 8-0 shutout. The excitement was palpable, with a record-breaking crowd of approximately 23,448 fans filling the stands, a testament to the city’s enthusiasm for its newly minted team.
1966: Bob Gibson And The Cardinals Streak
In 1966, Bob Gibson propelled the St. Louis Cardinals to an impressive victory in Pittsburgh, marking their 18th consecutive road win. This feat equaled the Major League Baseball record for most consecutive road wins against one team. The Cardinals’ streak showcased their dominance during away games, a testament to their robust pitching and relentless offense during that period.
1968: Astros-Mets Record-Breaking Long Game
On April 15, 1968, the Houston Astros edged the New York Mets in a marathon duel that lasted 24 innings. The contest, eventually won 1-0 by the Astros, set records as the longest completed game in National League history and the lengthiest MLB night game by duration. Fans witnessed this historic battle at the iconic Astrodome, where both teams’ pitching staffs engaged in a relentless, scoreless tug-of-war for 23 innings, until the Astros broke through to claim victory.
1972: Reggie Jackson’s Mustache
In the early ’70s, Reggie Jackson stirred the pot not just with his bat but also with his bold personal style. On April 15, 1972, he became the first player to sport facial hair in a major league game since Wally Schang of the Philadelphia Athletics grew a mustache in 1914. Defying baseball’s unwritten rule of clean-shaven players, Jackson’s mustache became an iconic part of his image during the Oakland A’s narrow 4-3 victory against the Minnesota Twins that went into extra innings.
1976: Yankee Stadium Renovation
On April 15, 1976, after extensive renovations, Yankee Stadium swung open its doors once again for an eager Opening Day crowd. The refurbished stadium paid homage to the 1923 Yankees, evoking nostalgia and honoring the rich history of the team. The highlight of the celebrations included Bob Shawkey, a star pitcher from the 1923 squad, returning to the mound to throw the ceremonial first pitch, bridging the storied past with the rejuvenated present.
1987: Juan Nieves’ No-Hitter
On April 15, 1987, Juan Nieves entered the record books by pitching the first no-hitter in Milwaukee Brewers history. Nieves’ no-hitter was a defining moment for Milwaukee, energizing fans and players alike as it also marked the team’s ninth consecutive win, underscoring their impressive early-season momentum. The achievement was punctuated by a spectacular defensive play, with Robin Yount making a diving catch to secure the no-hitter.
1993: Andre Dawson’s 400th Home Run
On April 15, 1993, baseball witnessed Andre Dawson slam his 400th career home run, elevating him into the exclusive club as the 25th player to achieve this milestone. Known among fans as “The Hawk,” Dawson’s power at the plate was a defining attribute of his prolific MLB career.
1993: Sparky Anderson’s 2,000th Victory
On April 15, 1993, Sparky Anderson, Detroit Tigers’ manager, marked a significant milestone in his career by securing his 2,000th win. It solidified Anderson’s status as one of the most successful managers in the sport.
1997: Jackie Robinson Number Retirement
On April 15, 1997, Major League Baseball honored the legacy of Jackie Robinson by retiring his jersey number, 42, league-wide. This historic event marked the 50th anniversary since Robinson courageously broke baseball’s color line, becoming the first African American to play in the majors in the modern era. His iconic number 42 is the only number to achieve this distinction across all MLB teams, symbolizing both the end of segregation in the sport and Jackie’s enduring impact on the game.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
April 15 is notable for the birthdays of several major league talents, with each player having made their indelible mark on the game.
1940: Willie Davis
On this day in 1940, Willie Davis, a center fielder known for his speed and defensive abilities, was born. Davis played 18 seasons in the majors, predominantly with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
1945: Ted Sizemore
Celebrating his birthday today is Ted Sizemore, the 1969 National League Rookie of the Year. Sizemore, a second baseman, was recognized for his solid performance with the bat and in the field during his career.
1969: Jeromy Burnitz
Jeromy Burnitz, the hard-hitting outfielder, is remembered most for his power at the plate. He amassed over 300 home runs across his 14-year stint in the majors.
1978: Milton Bradley
Milton Bradley, whose career started in the late 90s, was born today in 1978. The outfielder was known for his versatile hitting and ability to play multiple outfield positions.