Last Updated: June 17th, 2026 by Jake Cain
1957: The $1 Million Rejection For Herb Score
In the spring of 1957, Herb Score, the Cleveland Indians’ left-handed pitcher, was presented with a proposal that could have made him a very wealthy man. A group of investors offered Score a million dollars to leave Major League Baseball and pitch for an independent team. Despite the temptation, Score declined and remained loyal to the Indians and the MLB.
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1960: Sammy White’s Retirement Announcement
On March 19, 1960, Sammy White, a respected figure in baseball, announced his retirement. White, who was a catcher for the Boston Red Sox, ended a career that saw him don the Red Sox uniform for over a decade. He was especially lauded for his stamina in the 1955 season, where he played in 143 of 154 games, and ranked first among American League catchers in at-bats.
1984: Denny McLain’s Legal Troubles
In 1984, former Detroit Tigers pitching star Denny McLain was convicted of racketeering, extortion, and cocaine possession, signaling a steep decline from his days as the last pitcher to win 30 games in a season. The legal woes of McLain, who once dominated baseball headlines, now reflected a starkly different narrative, one marred by crime and punishment.
1989: Yankees Acquire Mel Hall For Joel Skinner
On March 19, 1989, the New York Yankees strengthened their outfield by trading catcher Joel Skinner to the Cleveland Indians for outfielder Mel Hall. Skinner, a solid defensive player known for his work behind the plate, was exchanged for Hall, who was expected to contribute significantly to the Yankees’ offense.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
March 19 is a special day in baseball history, celebrating the birth of several notable Major League players who have made significant contributions to the game.
1871: Joe McGinnity
Joe McGinnity, nicknamed “Iron Man,” was born on this day in 1871. He is remembered for his durable pitching arm, which earned him 246 major league victories and a place in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
1894: Bill Wambsganss
Bill Wambsganss was born on March 19, 1894. A second baseman, Wambsganss is best known for completing the only unassisted triple play in World Series history during the 1920 Series.
1927: Richie Ashburn
Richie Ashburn came into the world on this day in 1927. A Hall of Fame outfielder renowned for his bat, Whitey, as he was affectionately known, won two batting titles and retired with a .308 lifetime average.
1974: Rocky Coppinger
Rocky Coppinger, who saw major league action as a pitcher in the 90s, celebrates his birthday today. He played for both the Baltimore Orioles and the Milwaukee Brewers.