Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Jake Cain
1942: Jackie Robinson And Nate Moreland’s White Sox Tryout
In 1942, Jackie Robinson along with Nate Moreland made a significant bid to integrate baseball by seeking a tryout with the Chicago White Sox. Although they both showcased their skills, Manager Jimmy Dykes decided not to proceed with either player. This crucial moment reflected the prevailing racial barriers of the time, coming ahead of Robinson’s historic breaking of the color line in Major League Baseball in 1947.
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1953: Milwaukee Braves’ Historic Move
The Braves made a landmark shift from their long-time home in Boston to Milwaukee in 1953, after a seventy-seven-year tenure. This strategic move not only positioned the Braves in the National League’s Western Division but also led to the displacement of the minor-league Brewers to Toledo. The Braves’ relocation marked the beginning of a new chapter for Major League Baseball, sparking further relocations and expansions as teams sought to capture the hearts of fans in new cities.
1958: Dodgers Cut Ties With Emmett Kelly
In a move to redefine their image, the Los Angeles Dodgers decided to part ways with the well-known entertainer Emmett Kelly in 1958. Kelly, celebrated for his portrayal of the character Weary Willie, had previously been a distinctive sideshow at Dodgers’ games, providing light-hearted entertainment. This decision marked the end of an era as the Dodgers focused more on the game and less on extra-baseball spectacles.
1984: Passing Of Charlie Lau
On March 18, 1984, the baseball world mourned the loss of Charlie Lau, a revered hitting coach, at the age of 50. Lau, who succumbed to cancer, had a profound impact on the game, most notably through his guidance of George Brett during his tenure with the Kansas City Royals from 1971 to 1978. He was serving as a coach for the Chicago White Sox at the time of his passing, leaving behind a legacy as one of baseball’s most influential hitting coaches.
1990: Collective Bargaining Agreement
On March 18, 1990, after enduring a 32-day lockout, Major League Baseball players and team owners came to terms on a critical new collective bargaining agreement. The deal was pivotal in shaping the league’s financial and operational framework, particularly with new measures such as minimum player salaries set at $100,000 and changes to the way players could engage in salary arbitration. These modifications ensured a better financial stability for players and improved team spending regulations, setting a precedent for future agreements.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
March 18 marks the birthdate of several players, each leaving their mark on America’s pastime.
1874: Nixey Callahan
James Joseph “Nixey” Callahan made history as a versatile player and later as a manager. Playing both infield and pitcher positions, he showcased his diverse skillset during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
1916: Hi Bithorn
Hiram Bithorn became the first player from Puerto Rico to make it to the majors, paving the way for future generations. His career was tragically cut short, but his legacy lives on, especially within the Puerto Rican community.
1955: Dwayne Murphy
Dwayne Murphy was known for his exceptional defensive skills and power at the plate during the 1970s and ’80s. He earned six consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1980 to 1985, underlining his outfielding prowess.
1976: Scott Podsednik
Scott Podsednik is remembered for his speed and ability to steal bases, a quality that made him a key player on the field. His clutch hitting in the 2005 postseason helped propel the Chicago White Sox to a World Series victory.