Last Updated: April 17th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1923: Yankee Stadium Opens
On April 18, 1923, Yankee Stadium welcomed a record-breaking crowd for its inaugural game, numbering over 74,000 enthusiastic baseball fans. The legendary Babe Ruth christened “The House That Ruth Built” with a timely three-run homer, propelling the Yankees to victory over long-time rivals, the Boston Red Sox, with a final score of 4-1. This momentous event marked the beginning of a new era for the Yankees and their iconic Bronx ballpark.
1925: Charles Ebbets Passes Away
The Brooklyn Dodgers experienced a profound loss on April 18, 1925, with the passing of their revered President, Charles Ebbets. His death cast a shadow over the season’s opening day, leading to a standstill in National League games on April 21 as a sign of respect during his funeral.
1945: Pete Gray’s Major League Debut
Making an exceptional entrance into Major League Baseball, outfielder Pete Gray dramatically started his career with the St. Louis Browns on April 18, 1945. Despite having just one arm, Gray managed to secure a hit in his four at-bats, playing a role in the Browns’ decisive 7-1 triumph over the Detroit Tigers. His debut was not only a display of personal determination but also served as an inspiration to many during a time when the nation was focused on World War II efforts. Gray’s debut is remembered as a remarkable moment in baseball history, illustrating the power of resilience in sports.
1946: Jackie Robinson’s Historic Debut
On April 18, 1946, Jackie Robinson made a groundbreaking entry into professional baseball with the Montreal Royals, effectively ending the racial segregation in the sport’s organizational league. Demonstrating his skill, he hit a home run and three singles, marking an unforgettable beginning to his storied career. This monumental day was not just significant for Robinson’s personal achievements, but it also signaled the start of a new era in baseball history, with the dismantling of the color barrier.
1958: Record Attendance For Giants-Dodgers Game
On April 18, 1958, a massive crowd of 78,682 baseball enthusiasts filled the Los Angeles stadium to witness a historic rivalry between the Giants and Dodgers. This gathering set an attendance record, showcasing the immense draw of these two teams going head-to-head. The Dodgers ultimately triumphed with a close 6-5 victory, further cementing the game’s place in baseball lore.
1964: Sandy Koufax Strikes Out The Side
On April 18, 1964, Sandy Koufax achieved a remarkable feat, showcasing his dominant pitching by striking out the side with an immaculate nine pitches. This marked the second time Koufax had accomplished this nine-pitch, three-strikeout half-inning, etching his name in the history books for such efficiency. Despite his brilliance, the Dodgers fell to the Reds with a final score of 3-0, but Koufax’s performance remained a highlight of the game.
1981: Tom Seaver Joins 3,000 Strikeout Club
On April 18, 1981, Tom Seaver, pitching for the Cincinnati Reds, cemented his legacy by recording his 3,000th strikeout. His milestone came at the expense of Keith Hernandez of the St. Louis Cardinals. With this achievement, Seaver became only the fifth pitcher in Major League Baseball history to reach the 3,000 strikeout plateau.
1982: Atlanta Braves Set Record Start
The Atlanta Braves’ opening to the 1982 season was one for the history books, as they churned out victory after victory. On April 18th, they clinched their 11th consecutive win by edging out the Houston Astros in a tight 6-5 game, marking the longest winning streak from the start of a season in National League history at that time.
1987: Mike Schmidt Hits 500th Home Run
On April 18, 1987, Mike Schmidt joined the elite 500 home run club with a dramatic three-run homer, clinching a win for the Philadelphia Phillies against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Schmidt’s monumental blast carved his name as the 15th player in MLB history to reach such a lofty milestone.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
Here we honor the legacies of those who made their mark on America’s pastime.
1880: Sam Crawford
Known for his powerhouse hitting, Sam Crawford was born on this day in 1880. Crawford still holds the record for the most career triples in the Major Leagues.
1888: Duffy Lewis
Duffy Lewis, born April 18th, 1888, made his mark as a left fielder for the Boston Red Sox, contributing significantly to their World Series championships in the 1910s.
1942: Steve Blass
Steve Blass celebrates his birthday today, remembered for his pivotal role in helping the Pittsburgh Pirates capture the 1971 World Series title with his exceptional pitching.
1955: Bobby Castillo
Bobby Castillo is credited with teaching Fernando Valenzuela the screwball, a pitch that would become a significant part of the latter’s successful career.
1959: Jim Eisenreich
Celebrating his birthday today, Jim Eisenreich is known for his resilience in overcoming an early career struggle with Tourette syndrome to become a World Series champion with the Florida Marlins in 1997.