Last Updated: April 17th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1900: Record Runs On Opening Day
Facing off on Opening Day, the Philadelphia Phillies and the Boston Braves delivered an extraordinary performance, combining for a total of 36 runs, a record for opening day games of the season. Their battle reached a fever pitch as the Braves, trailing in the ninth, made a remarkable comeback, scoring nine runs to push the game into extra innings.
1920: Al Schacht’s Shutout
On April 19, 1920, Al Schacht manifested his pitching prowess for the Washington Senators by securing a dominant 7-0 shutout against the Philadelphia Athletics. Schacht, who would later earn the moniker “Clown Prince of Baseball” for his humorous antics, demonstrated that his talent on the mound was no joking matter.
1938: Home Run Debuts
April 19, 1938, marked a remarkable day in baseball history as two players from opposing teams hit home runs in their very first major league at-bats. Ernie Koy of the Brooklyn Dodgers and Heinie Mueller of the Philadelphia Phillies each launched a ball out of the park, an event seldom seen, especially during the same game. This shared milestone between Koy and Mueller emphasized the unpredictability and excitement of America’s pastime.
1949: Babe Ruth Monument Unveiled
In 1949, at Yankee Stadium, a significant tribute took place during pre-game festivities as a monument was revealed in honor of the legendary Babe Ruth. This event also included the presentation of plaques commemorating Lou Gehrig and Miller Huggins, further enshrining their legacies beside Ruth’s in baseball history. The ceremony reflected the immense respect and admiration held for Babe Ruth, who transformed the sport with his remarkable home-run hitting prowess.
1965: Astrodome Paint Job Leads To Artificial Turf
In an effort to reduce the intense sunlight glare, the Houston Astrodome had its glass ceiling panels painted. This move inadvertently blocked sunlight, leading to the natural grass on the playing field dying. This predicament necessitated a novel solution—thus, in 1966, the Astrodome became the first sports stadium to install artificial turf, which later garnered the name AstroTurf, forever changing the landscape of sports venues.
1966: Anaheim Stadium’s First Regular Season Game
On April 19, 1966, Anaheim Stadium, the new home of the California Angels, was christened with its inaugural regular season game. Rick Reichardt made history for the home team by hitting the Angels’ inaugural home run at the stadium.
1981: The Longest Game In Professional Baseball
On April 19, 1981, a Triple-A clash between the Rochester Red Wings and the Pawtucket Red Sox became etched in history when the game stretched to a staggering 33 innings. The contest, which took place at McCoy Stadium in Rhode Island, ended up with a colossal 8 hours and 25 minutes of playtime. Initially paused after 32 innings due to league curfew rules, the game was concluded two months later, cementing its place as the longest professional baseball game on record.
1987: Brewers’ Historic Season Start
The Milwaukee Brewers set the American League alight in 1987 with an unprecedented season kickoff, enshrining a new record with a 12-0 streak. This electrifying commencement eclipsed past records and peaked with Dale Sveum’s game-winning home run. The Brewers’ feat, fueling a fervent boost in team morale, has since remained a highlight in the annals of early season baseball accomplishments.
1997: Major League Baseball In Hawaii
On April 19, 1997, Aloha Stadium hosted a unique event in MLB’s history as the San Diego Padres and St. Louis Cardinals faced off in Hawaii’s first-ever Major League Baseball games. The Cardinals emerged victorious in both games of the doubleheader, marking a memorable moment for baseball fans on the islands.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
Celebrating the birthdays of baseball standouts from the past, April 19 marks the day several remarkable talents were born, each leaving a significant mark on the game.
1909: Bucky Walters
Bucky Walters, born in 1909, transitioned from a third baseman to an ace pitcher who became the National League MVP in 1939 with the Cincinnati Reds.
1915: Harry Craft
Harry Craft is remembered not just for his playing career but also for managing the Kansas City Athletics during their early years.
1918: Whitey Kurowski
Five-time All-Star Whitey Kurowski was a key contributor for the St. Louis Cardinals in the 1940s, especially during their World Series victories.
1960: Frank Viola
On April 19, 1960, Frank Viola was born; he’s best known for his dominant pitching, earning him a World Series MVP and a Cy Young Award during the prime of his career.
1974: Jose Cruz, Jr.
Jose Cruz, Jr., born in 1974, made a name for himself in the majors with power hitting, contributing over 200 home runs across his baseball journey.