Last Updated: April 19th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1926: Mel Ott’s Debut
On April 27, 1926, at the age of 17, Mel Ott made his first appearance in Major League Baseball with the New York Giants in a match against the Philadelphia Phillies. In the following year, Ott would secure his place as a regular on the Giants’ roster, eventually becoming one of baseball’s greatest power hitters.
1944: Jim Tobin’s No-Hitter
On April 27, 1944, Jim Tobin, pitching for the Boston Braves, achieved a remarkable feat by throwing a no-hitter against the Brooklyn Dodgers. The Braves triumphed with a score of 2-0, thanks in part to Tobin’s stellar performance on the mound. Not only did he dominate defensively, but Tobin also made a significant offensive contribution by hitting a home run, showcasing his all-around talent in the game.
1947: Babe Ruth Day
Throughout Major League Baseball, April 27, 1947, was commemorated as Babe Ruth Day. This tribute was in honor of the iconic Babe Ruth, who, despite facing health challenges, was celebrated by fans far and wide.
1968: Tom Phoebus’ No-Hitter
On April 27, 1968, Baltimore Orioles’ pitcher Tom Phoebus dominated the Boston Red Sox with a no-hitter, leading to a decisive 6-0 victory for his team. An exceptional defensive effort by Brooks Robinson, combined with his contribution of three runs batted in (RBIs), played a crucial role in the game’s outcome. Phoebus’ masterful performance remains a memorable moment in Orioles’ history, showcasing his skill as a pitcher during that Major League Baseball season.
1971: Hank Aaron Joins 600-Home Run Club
On April 27, 1971, Hank Aaron blasted his 600th home run, securing his place among baseball’s elite power hitters. His historic swing came in a game where the Atlanta Braves ultimately fell to the San Francisco Giants, thanks to a clutch hit by Willie Mays in extra innings. Aaron’s milestone homer not only celebrated his consistency and power at the plate but also etched his name alongside the game’s most prolific sluggers.
1973: Steve Busby’s No-Hitter
In an impressive display of pitching, Steve Busby, then a novice to the major leagues, threw an exceptional no-hitter for the Kansas City Royals. This feat on April 27 marked the first no-hitter in the team’s history and was also the first no-hitter at Detroit’s Tiger Stadium since the early ’50s. Busby’s performance not only cemented his place in baseball history but also paid homage to the stadium’s storied past.
1983: Nolan Ryan’s Strikeout Record
On an extraordinary day for baseball, April 27, 1983, Nolan Ryan etched his name in the record books. Against the Montreal Expos, the legendary pitcher set a new milestone with his 3,509th strikeout, eclipsing Walter Johnson‘s longstanding record. This momentous achievement came during a 4-2 win, which marked a significant highlight in Ryan’s illustrious career.
1990: Orel Hershiser’s Season-Ending Surgery
In a significant blow to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Orel Hershiser, one of the most reliable pitchers in baseball, underwent shoulder surgery on April 27, 1990. This operation brought an abrupt halt to his impressive run of consecutive starts that dated back to 1984. The procedure forced him to miss the remainder of the season, leaving the Dodgers without one of their star players on the mound.
1994: Scott Erickson’s No-Hitter
On April 27, 1994, Scott Erickson etched his name into the history books with a no-hitter for the Minnesota Twins against the Milwaukee Brewers. It was a remarkable achievement for Erickson, showcasing a masterful performance on the mound, an accomplishment that the Twins had not witnessed since 1967. This illustrious event was a highlight of Erickson’s career and a celebrated moment for Twins fans, serving as a testament to his pitching prowess and securing a spot in the annals of baseball history.
1996: Barry Bonds Joins 300-300 Club
On April 27, 1996, Barry Bonds cemented his legacy in baseball by hitting two home runs, elevating his career total to 300 homers. By reaching this milestone, Bonds also became a distinguished member of a small group of players who have achieved both 300 home runs and 300 stolen bases in their careers. His accomplishment that day put him alongside his father, Bobby Bonds, and godfather, Willie Mays, adding to the allure of his already impressive career.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
April 27 marks the birth of three outstanding baseball talents, each renowned for their exceptional contributions to the game.
1896: Rogers Hornsby
Rogers Hornsby, born in 1896, was one of the greatest hitters in the history of the game, boasting an impressive career batting average and multiple MVP awards.
1916: Enos Slaughter
Enos Slaughter earned fame for his hustle and an unforgettable “Mad Dash” from first to home in the 1946 World Series.
1975: Chris Carpenter
Chris Carpenter’s 1975 birthday celebrates a modern pitching legend whose career was highlighted by Cy Young Award recognition and key performances in postseason play.