Last Updated: June 21st, 2024 by Jake Cain
1912: Marquard’s 19 Straight Wins
In 1912, Rube Marquard, a pitcher for the New York Giants, achieved a remarkable feat when he won his 19th consecutive victory during the season. Marquard’s record-setting performance set a new benchmark for regular-season excellence and became a testament to his skill and consistency on the mound.
1966: Cloninger’s Grand Slams And RBI Record
On July 3, 1966, Tony Cloninger etched his name in the baseball history books with an astonishing performance at the plate. The Atlanta Braves pitcher became the first National League player to belt two grand slams in a single game. This feat contributed to his impressive nine RBIs that day, setting a record for most runs batted in by a pitcher in a Major League game.
1968: Tiant’s Strikeout Records
On July 3, 1968, Luis Tiant delivered an extraordinary performance that engraved his name in the annals of baseball history. In a grueling ten-inning effort, Tiant amassed a staggering nineteen strikeouts. This masterful display set a new benchmark for the most strikeouts in a ten-inning game, as well as the highest number of strikeouts across two consecutive games, showcasing his dominance on the mound.
1970: Clyde Wright’s NAIA Induction And No-Hitter
On July 3, 1970, Clyde Wright had a monumental day, joining the NAIA Hall of Fame, a testament to his collegiate baseball excellence. Later that day, he marked the celebration by throwing a no-hitter against the Oakland Athletics. Wright’s no-hitter was a rare feat, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled left-handed pitcher in the major leagues.
1983: Record Runs In A Single Extra Inning
On July 3, 1983, the Texas Rangers etched their name in the record books, unleashing an unprecedented scoring barrage in the 15th inning of their game against the Oakland Athletics. They tallied an astonishing 12 runs, setting the major league mark for the most runs scored in a single extra inning. This extraordinary feat remains a testament to the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of baseball where records can be smashed even in the late stages of the game.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
July 3rd stands as a notable date for celebrating the births of several impact players in baseball history.
1893: Dickie Kerr
Dickie Kerr made his mark as a rookie pitcher for the Chicago White Sox when he famously won two games in the scandal-plagued 1919 World Series.
1953: Frank Tanana
Frank Tanana began with a fastball that intimidated hitters before transitioning to a crafty left-hander with a career spanning over two decades.
1966: Moises Alou
Moises Alou, a six-time All-Star born in 1966, carried a potent bat in the lineup, known for his sharp hitting skills and tenure with multiple teams.
1955: Matt Keough
Right-hander Matt Keough featured in the majors largely with the Oakland Athletics, earning an All-Star selection early in his career.