Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Jake Cain
1900: Formation Of The Chicago White Stockings In The A.L.
In 1900, the American League introduced a new team to Chicago, situated on the city’s South Side. This team, taking on the White Stockings moniker, created a fresh identity that harked back to the National League‘s former name for the Chicago squad. Integrating themselves into the American League, the White Stockings quickly became a significant player in the burgeoning baseball landscape.
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1953: A.L. Denies Bill Veeck’s Team Relocation
In 1953, the American League thwarted Bill Veeck’s attempt to relocate the St. Louis Browns to Baltimore. This decision was part of a larger strategy to force Veeck, a maverick owner known for his promotional stunts, out of the league. Persisting in its stance, the league’s rejection underscored the tension between Veeck and the baseball establishment.
1985: Denny McLain’s Legal Troubles
In 1985, Denny McLain faced significant legal challenges. The former A.L. Cy Young Award winner, known for his remarkable 1968 season, was convicted on charges including racketeering and drug possession. Though McLain was initially sentenced to prison, his conviction was overturned on appeal.
- Convicted: Racketeering, Drug Possession
- Baseball Achievement: 1968 A.L. Cy Young Award Winner
- Outcome: Conviction Overturned by Appeals Court
1994: Eric Show’s Tragic Demise
Eric Show, once a prominent pitcher for the San Diego Padres, fell victim to a drug overdose at the age of 37, marking a sobering moment for the baseball community. For those who remember, his passing serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges that may follow long after the cheers fade.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
This section celebrates the legacies of players born on March 16, a date that has seen the birth of several notable baseball talents from the past.
1859: Jerry Denny
Jerry Denny, born on this day in 1859, was an infielder known for being the last player to field his position without a glove.
1865: Patsy Donovan
Patsy Donovan was born in 1865; he distinguished himself both as a right fielder with a solid batting record and later as a manager in the big leagues.
1904: Buddy Myer
On March 16, 1904, the Washington Senators saw the birth of Buddy Myer, a batting champion whose skills at second base were second to none during his era.
1906: Lloyd Waner
Lloyd Waner, another March 16 baby born in 1906, patrolled the outfield with grace and was known for his impressive hitting as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
1970: Curt Schmidt
Curt Schmidt came into the world on this day in 1970, finding his place on the pitcher’s mound with a brief but memorable stint in the majors.
1976: Abraham Nunez
Abraham Nunez celebrates his birth on March 16, 1976, a versatile infielder who contributed to his teams with both his defensive play and his presence in the batting lineup.