Last Updated: April 26th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1916: Philadelphia A’s End Losing Streak
In the dog days of 1916, the Philadelphia Athletics were on a skid that seemed would never end. But on August 9, they finally turned the tables. Managed by Connie Mack, known for his sharp baseball mind, the A’s had struggled all season but managed to rally for a victory that day. Their win brought a sigh of relief to A’s fans, who had endured a long season of disappointments.
Their record leading up to the victory was a point of frustration for the team and a growing concern for their loyal fanbase. Notably, the 1916 Philadelphia Athletics finished the season with a mere 36 wins, an all-time low for the American League back then. It was an era where baseball served as a respite from worldly concerns, and this win provided a glimmer of hope.
Though the A’s 1916 season was a tough one, with a win percentage that still stands as one of the lowest, the joy of breaking a losing streak is something every fan cherishes. That win in August was a much-needed break from the grim stats that year, and decades later, it serves as a reminder that in baseball, as in life, a turnaround might just be one game away.
1918: Hal Chase Suspended for Suspected Bribery
In 1918, Hal Chase, a top-notch first baseman and one-time manager, found himself in hot water. Baseball’s higher-ups suspected him of bribery and weren’t having any of it—they suspended him. Thing is, betting on baseball, even on your own team, was a huge no-no. Chase was accused of placing bets on games, specifically against the Cleveland Indians, which raised eyebrows around the league.
1939: Red Rolfe’s Scoring Streak Begins
On August 9, 1939, Yankees’ third baseman Red Rolfe kicked off what would become a historic scoring run. During this streak, Rolfe crossed home plate in 18 consecutive games, setting a fiery pace for the Yankees. His performance at the plate was pivotal, helping to propel the Bronx Bombers during a competitive season. To this day, baseball aficionados tip their caps to Rolfe’s impressive streak that remains a testament to his tenacity and skill as a top-notch player.
1946: First All-Night Major League Games
The major leagues lit up the night for the first time in 1946, as teams ventured under the bright lights for evening play. This pivotal shift meant working fans could enjoy games post-work, bringing a new dynamic to the spectator experience. The Cincinnati Reds made history, hosting the first Major League night game on May 24, 1946, at Crosley Field. They faced off against the Philadelphia Phillies and, under those lights, baseball stepped into a new era, much to the delight of the evening crowd.
1960: Ted Williams Ties Mel Ott’s Home Run Record
On August 9, 1960, Ted Williams hit his 511th home run, matching Mel Ott’s impressive record. Williams, one of baseball’s all-time greats, smashed a pitch from Kansas City Athletics’ pitcher John Tsitouris straight into the stands.
This milestone homer tied him with Ott for the National League record of most career home runs at that time. Fans remember this day, not only for William’s legendary swing but as a moment where he joined another giant of the game in the record books. Baseball aficionados saw Williams’ feat as a testament to his enduring talent, even as he was nearing the end of his remarkable career.
1963: Roger Craig’s Losing Streak Ends
On August 9, 1963, the baseball world breathed a sigh of relief alongside Roger Craig, as he finally saw the end of his heart-wrenching losing streak. Pitching for the hapless New York Mets, Craig’s misfortune was something of a running joke that year, but not to the die-hard fans. They gave him a standing ovation when his streak of 18 consecutive losses came to an abrupt end with a 5-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The Mets themselves were far from contenders, but that day, Craig was their hero, showing that even the underdog has his day.
1975: Davey Lopes’ Stolen Base Record
On August 9, 1975, Davey Lopes made baseball history. The Los Angeles Dodgers’ second baseman stole his way into the record books with a streak that’s hard to forget. Lopes nabbed 38 bases in a row without being caught, a sneaky feat that set a new National League record at the time. He had a way of swiping bags that kept pitchers and catchers on their toes, and even today, Dodgers fans tip their caps to his base-stealing prowess.
1976: John Candelaria Throws No-Hitter
On August 9, 1976, Three Rivers Stadium witnessed a masterful display of pitching from John Candelaria as he threw the Pirates’ first no-hitter in almost seven decades. On what Pirates fans fondly recall as “Candy Night,” Candelaria kept Dodgers hitters guessing with a mix of fastballs and curves, retiring the last 19 batters in order. This outstanding performance sealed a 2-0 victory for the Pirates, marking Candelaria’s place in baseball history.
His accomplishment that day was the first no-hitter for the Pirates in Pittsburgh since Nick Maddox’s gem in 1907. Baseball fans still tip their caps to the Candy Man for a game that remains etched in Pirates lore. Candelaria’s no-hitter was a high point in a career that would also include a World Series championship with the Pirates in 1979, earning him a revered spot among the Steel City’s pitching greats.
1979: Walter O’Malley Passes Away
On August 9, 1979, the baseball world marked the end of an era with the passing of Walter O’Malley, the revered owner of the Dodgers. O’Malley’s decision to move the team from Brooklyn to Los Angeles in 1958 forever changed the game, earning him both admiration and ire among fans. His tenure saw the Dodgers clinch numerous pennants and World Series titles, cementing his legacy. Fans recognize him as the man who brought baseball to the West Coast, a pivotal moment in the sport’s history.
1981: Baseball Returns from Strike with All-Star Game
After a two-month pause, baseball came roaring back on August 9, 1981, with the All-Star Game lighting up Cleveland Stadium. The fans witnessed a close contest that ended with the National League edging out the American League 5-4, marking a celebratory return post-strike. It wasn’t just any game; it was symbolic—a hearty welcome back to the players and fans who had been missing the summer’s greatest pastime.
72,086 cheers filled the Cleveland air, setting the vibe for the rest of the season. Players, fresh off the picket lines, shook off the rust and put up a show that reminded everyone what they had been missing. This game wasn’t just about who won or lost; it was baseball’s way of saying, “Let’s get back to the diamond and play ball!”
1988: First Official Night Game at Wrigley Field
After waiting decades, Wrigley Field finally switched on the lights for an evening game on August 9, 1988. The Chicago Cubs faced off against the New York Mets, making history with their first official night game at home. The previous attempt had been a washout, quite literally, with rain calling off play in the fourth inning the day before. Cubs fans witnessed a historic 6-4 victory under the Wrigley lights, with the ballpark joining the rest of the MLB in hosting nighttime baseball.
1997: Brad Radke Winning Streak Ends
On August 9, 1997, Minnesota Twins’ stalwart pitcher Brad Radke saw his impressive 12-game winning streak come to a halt. His streak, which had begun earlier in the season, piqued the interest and admiration of baseball fans for its consistency and his ability to dominate on the mound. That day, facing the Texas Rangers, Radke pitched with his usual tenacity but ultimately the Twins fell short, tethering a remarkable chapter of the ’97 season to its close. While all good things must end, Radke’s streak remains a high point for Twins enthusiasts, illustrating the unpredictable and thrilling nature of baseball where even the steadiest can be upended.
1998: Dennis Martinez Becomes Winningest Latin American Pitcher
On August 9, 1998, Dennis Martinez etched his name into the baseball records as he claimed the title of the winningest Latin American pitcher. With his 244th win, he surpassed Juan Marichal’s longstanding mark. The moment was monumental not just for Martinez, but for baseball fans everywhere, as it highlighted the significant impact of Latin American players in the league. Martinez’s achievement, accomplished while he was with the Atlanta Braves, was a testament to his enduring skill and resilience on the mound.
He didn’t just become a record-holder that day; he became a symbol of pride and excellence for Latin American ballplayers and fans alike. His milestone victory against the San Francisco Giants was nothing short of a perfect illustration of his prowess. Martinez’s commanding presence on the field was always one to watch, but on that day, it was historic. The right-hander’s climb to this pinnacle was a journey filled with tenacity, earning him a spot in the heart of baseball lore.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
It’s a special day in baseball history as we celebrate the birthdays of legendary figures who left their mark on the game. Today, we recognize stars from the past, with careers spanning from the golden age to the modern era.
1919: Ralph Houk
Ralph Houk, born on this day, managed the Yankees to three consecutive pennants from 1961-1963 and two World Series championships. He was also behind the plate as a catcher during the ’40s and ’50s.
1942: Tommie Agee
On this day, we tip our caps to Tommie Agee, the ’66 NL Rookie of the Year and key player in the ’69 “Miracle Mets” World Series run. Remembered for his outstanding defensive play in center field and timely hitting.
1949: Ted Simmons
Catching great Ted Simmons, who swung a mean bat, celebrates his birthday today. An eight-time All-Star and 2020 Hall of Fame inductee, he’s admired for both his offense and his leadership behind the dish.
1967: Deion Sanders
A two-sport star, Deion Sanders was as flashy on the baseball diamond as he was on the football field. Known for his speed and charisma, ‘Neon Deion’ made baseball fun to watch in the 90s.
1969: Troy Percival
Happy birthday to Troy Percival, one of the top closers of his time with a wicked fastball. He was a key piece in the Angels’ bullpen, especially during their 2002 World Series championship.
1970: Pat Mahomes
Celebrating today is Pat Mahomes, the versatile pitcher with a solid career in MLB. Now often mentioned as the father of NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes II, he had his own moments on the mound in the majors.
1975: Brian Fuentes
Brian Fuentes, the lefty with a deceptive delivery, turns another year older today. A reliable closer and four-time All-Star, he kept hitters guessing and racked up impressive save totals.