Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Jake Cain
1919: William Veeck Becomes Cubs President
In 1919, William Veeck, previously known for his days as a sportswriter, stepped into the role of president for the Chicago Cubs. He took the reins from Fred Mitchell, who shifted focus to continue his duties solely as the team’s manager. Veeck’s entry into the Cubs’ front office marked a new era for the club, sparking changes and aspirations for the storied franchise. His knowledge of the game, coupled with his writing background, laid the groundwork for innovative approaches to team management.
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1932: Cubs’ Billy Jurges Shot By Violet Popovich Valli
On July 6, 1932, the Chicago Cubs’ shortstop Billy Jurges sustained gunshot wounds to his hand and shoulder in a scuffle involving his former girlfriend, Violet Popovich Valli. During the incident, Jurges decided against filing charges against Valli. In a turn of events, Valli leveraged her sudden infamy from the shooting, securing a singing engagement at a nightclub. This event added a bizarre twist to the colorful history of the Cubs, intertwining baseball with a flash of tabloid drama.
1933: Inaugural Major-League All-Star Game
On July 6, 1933, Comiskey Park was the scene of the very first All-Star Game in major league history. Fans witnessed the legendary Babe Ruth make history with a critical two-run homer, a moment that contributed heavily to the American League’s 4-2 triumph over their National League counterparts. Leading the National League stars was the well-respected John McGraw, emerging from retirement for this special event to manage the team. This inaugural clash, featuring some of baseball’s biggest names, set a precedent for what has become a cherished annual tradition in the sport.
1942: Home Runs Mark American League All-Star Game Victory
At the Polo Grounds showdown, the American League clinched a 3-1 victory over their National League counterparts, thanks to early over-the-fence action from Lou Boudreau and Rudy York. These batting aces rocked the stadium in the first inning, setting a tone that the N.L. struggled to answer. The National League’s only run came from Mickey Owen, who stepped up to the plate as a pinch hitter and launched a homer of his own.
1956: Introduction Of The Cy Young Award
On July 6, 1956, Commissioner Ford Frick unveiled the Cy Young Award, a significant new accolade to recognize the year’s most outstanding pitcher. Initially, this award was unique because it was awarded to a single pitcher across both the American and National Leagues, rather than having a recipient from each league. Ballots were cast by the Baseball Writers Association, whose members were tasked with selecting the top performer on the mound each season. The singular award practice continued until 1967, after which a pitcher from each league would be honored annually.
1980: Steve Carlton Sets Strikeout Record For Left-Handed Pitchers
On July 6, 1980, Philadelphia Phillies’ ace Steve Carlton reached a major milestone by becoming the all-time strikeout leader among left-handed pitchers. In a game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Carlton struck out seven batters, catapulting his career total to 2,836, and eclipsing Mickey Lolich’s previous record. His exceptional ability to send batters back to the dugout with his sharp pitching continued to impress fans and etch his name into the baseball record books.
1983: A.L. Dominates In 50th Anniversary All-Star Game
On July 6, 1983, the American League showcased its might in a momentous All-Star Game, outplaying the National League with a convincing score of 13-3. At the heart of the celebratory clash, an explosive seven-run eruption during the fourth inning turned heads as Fred Lynn hammered the first grand slam ever witnessed in All-Star history. This mammoth blast set the tone for the rest of the game, as the A.L. players ran rampant, emphatically marking the event’s golden anniversary.
1986: Bob Horner Hits Four Home Runs In A Single Game
On July 6, 1986, Bob Horner of the Atlanta Braves put on a remarkable display of power, smashing four home runs in a single game. Making this achievement even more memorable, Horner was just the second player in MLB history to hit four homers in a game without his team securing a victory. His performance that day solidified his place in the annals of baseball, joining a select group of sluggers who have managed such a remarkable accomplishment.
1989: Retired Mike Schmidt And Injured Jose Canseco Elected To All-Star Game
In a nod to their significant contributions to baseball, Mike Schmidt and Jose Canseco both received the honor of being elected to the All-Star Game in 1989. Schmidt, regarded as a baseball legend, made the National League All-Star team even after hanging up his cleats earlier that season. On the flip side, Canseco, a notable slugger for the American League, secured his spot despite being sidelined due to an injury.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
Celebrating the birthdays of notable Major League Baseball players is a cherished tradition among fans, reflecting on the careers of those who took the field on July 6.
1924: Frank Kellert
Frank Kellert played first base for several MLB teams during the 1950s. He had a brief but memorable career, known for his time with the Brooklyn Dodgers.
1954: Willie Randolph
Willie Randolph made his mark as a second baseman. He played 18 seasons in the majors, becoming a six-time All-Star and earning five World Series rings, primarily with the New York Yankees.
1963: Lance Johnson
Speedster Lance Johnson was the center fielder known for leading the league in triples four times in the 1990s. His quickness on the bases made him a standout throughout his career.