Last Updated: April 19th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1931: Wes Ferrell’s No-Hitter
In a remarkable display of dual talent, Wes Ferrell of the Cleveland Indians delivered a no-hit game against the St. Louis Browns on April 29, 1931, sealing a decisive 7-0 victory. Equally impressive was Ferrell’s performance at the plate: he blasted a home run and a double, personally driving in four of Cleveland’s runs.
1981: Steve Carlton’s 3,000th Strikeout
On April 29, 1981, Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Steve Carlton cemented his legacy as one of the game’s greats by becoming the first left-hander to record 3,000 strikeouts. His historic strikeout came at the expense of Tim Wallach from the Montreal Expos. This milestone placed Carlton in an elite group of pitchers and marked a significant moment in MLB history.
1986: Roger Clemens’ Record 20 Strikeouts
On April 29, 1986, Boston Red Sox pitcher Roger Clemens set a major league record that resounded through Fenway Park and across baseball history. Facing the Seattle Mariners, Clemens threw an astonishing 20 strikeouts, leading the Red Sox to a slender 3-1 victory. This extraordinary performance etched his name into baseball lore, establishing a new benchmark for pitchers in a single nine-inning game.
1987: Andre Dawson Hits For The Cycle
On an energetic April day at Wrigley Field, Andre Dawson of the Chicago Cubs achieved a remarkable feat. He not only energized the crowd with his prowess at the plate but also played a crucial role in the Cubs’ victory over the San Francisco Giants, with the scoreboard reflecting an 8-4 win. Nicknamed “The Hawk,” Dawson’s five-hit showcase included hitting for the cycle, a rare baseball achievement that involves a batter hitting a single, a double, a triple, and a home run all in the same game.
1988: Orioles End Losing Streak
On April 29, 1988, the Baltimore Orioles finally celebrated victory, breaking a 21-game losing streak. They dominated the game against the Chicago White Sox, emerging victorious with a 9-0 score. This win marked a turning point for the team, securing their first triumph of the season with a dominant performance on the field.
1994: Kirk Rueter’s 10-0 Career Start
Kirk Rueter, pitcher for the Montreal Expos, notched an unprecedented 10-0 record at the beginning of his major league career. This remarkable start was last mirrored by Fernando Valenzuela’s performance back in 1981. Rueter’s tenth victory came at the expense of the Pittsburgh Pirates, marking a milestone that placed him in an exclusive club of successful starting pitchers.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
April 29 marks the birth of several baseball legends who left their mark on the game.
1934: Luis Aparicio
Hall of Famer Luis Aparicio was renowned for his exceptional skills as a shortstop. He stole over 500 bases and was a key player for the Chicago White Sox and Baltimore Orioles.
1952: Ron Washington
Ron Washington, born today in 1952, is much celebrated as both a player and manager. He led the Texas Rangers to consecutive World Series appearances in 2010 and 2011.
1933: Ed Charles
Ed Charles, who also shared this birthday, played an instrumental role with the 1969 “Miracle Mets.” His leadership and prowess at third base helped guide them to a World Series victory.