Last Updated: April 8th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1929: Earl Averill’s Home Run Debut
On April 16, 1929, Earl Averill launched his Major League Baseball journey with a bang, slamming a home run on his very first at-bat. This remarkable debut made him the first player in the American League to hit a home run in his initial Major League appearance. Averill’s instant impact set the tone for what would be an illustrious career, forever etching his name in baseball lore.
1935: Babe Ruth’s N.L. Debut
On April 16, 1935, Babe Ruth captivated the baseball world once again by launching a home run during his first game with the Boston Braves, marking a momentous start in the National League. A large crowd gathered, testament to Ruth’s unwavering appeal and the impactful legacy he had built as a baseball icon.
1940: Bob Feller’s Opening Day No-Hitter
On a chilly April day, at the age of 21, Bob Feller achieved what no other pitcher had managed since 1909: a no-hitter on Opening Day. It was not only Feller’s first no-no but also the beginning of a storied career that would include three no-hitters and an impressive twelve one-hitters.
1948: First Televised MLB Game
On April 16, 1948, WGN-TV made broadcasting history by airing a Major League Baseball game for the very first time, marking a new chapter in how fans engage with America’s Pastime. This momentous occasion provided viewers an unprecedented opportunity to watch live baseball from the comfort of their homes. It catalyzed the transformative journey of sports media, forever changing the spectator experience and propelling MLB’s presence into television households across the country.
1977: Vida Blue’s Lucky Cap Incident
In 1977, Vida Blue, the notable left-handed pitcher for the Oakland Athletics, faced an unexpected challenge unrelated to his pitching skills. Baseball officials insisted that he part ways with his lucky, but discolored, cap, citing uniform regulations. This incident highlighted the stringent emphasis on uniformity within the sport, even when it came to personal superstitions and player quirks.
1978: Bob Forsch’s No-Hitter
On April 16, 1978, Bob Forsch etched his name into baseball lore by throwing a no-hitter for the St. Louis Cardinals against the Philadelphia Phillies. In a remarkable twist of fate, his brother Ken would also throw a no-hitter, establishing the Forschs as the only brothers to each achieve a no-hitter in Major League Baseball.
1983: Steve Garvey’s Consecutive Games Record
Steve Garvey etched his name into the baseball record books on April 16, 1983, by playing in his 1,118th straight game, surpassing the National League record for consecutive games played. As a stalwart first baseman, Garvey was admired for his steadfast performance, demonstrating a level of endurance that few others in the league could match.
1984: Dave Kingman’s Three Home Runs
On April 16, 1984, Dave Kingman showcased his exceptional power at the plate with a remarkable display of hitting. He smashed not just one home run, but three in a single game, underlining his status as a formidable slugger. Among these was a grand slam, adding to the impressiveness of his performance and contributing significantly to the team’s offensive output for the day.
1989: Kelly Gruber’s Cycle for Blue Jays
On April 16, 1989, Kelly Gruber etched his name into Toronto Blue Jays’ history by becoming the first player in the franchise to hit for the cycle. Gruber’s hitting prowess was on full display as he single-handedly dismantled the opposition’s pitching, contributing to the Blue Jays’ overwhelming offensive output that day.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
This section celebrates the birthdays of significant baseball figures who made remarkable contributions to the sport.
1903: Paul Waner
Paul Waner, born on this day in 1903, was a hitting powerhouse whose skill with the bat earned him a spot in the Hall of Fame.
1942: Jim Lonborg
Jim Lonborg is best remembered for his Cy Young Award-winning season in 1967.
1955: Bruce Bochy
Bruce Bochy, born today in 1955, is respected for his long managerial career and the World Series titles he brought home.
1969: Fernando Vina
Fernando Vina was a reliable second baseman known for his consistent hitting.
1972: Antonio Alfonseca
Antonio Alfonseca is recognizable for his six-fingered hands and his impressive saves record.