Last Updated: March 20th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1867: Cy Young’s Birth
On March 29, 1867, Denton True “Cy” Young was born in the rural community of Gilmore, Ohio. Before becoming a baseball legend, Young spent his early years on his family’s farm, gaining the strength and resilience that would define his pitching style. His debut in the major leagues came in 1890, and his career spanned an impressive 22 seasons, during which he amassed a record 511 wins, underlining his status as one of baseball’s greatest pitchers.
1954: Phil Cavarretta Fired During Spring Training
On March 29, 1954, a surprising turn of events unfolded for the Chicago Cubs when Phil Cavarretta was dismissed. Cavarretta, who had been with the Cubs as a player since 1934 and took on dual roles as player-manager since the latter part of the 1951 season, was fired just days before the 1954 season opener. He had led the team to a 77-77 record in 1953, a marked improvement from the previous season, but his honest assessment of the team’s prospects for the upcoming season prompted his firing by Cubs owner Philip K. Wrigley during spring training.
1983: Dodgers Season Ticket Sales Cutoff
In 1983, the demand for Los Angeles Dodgers season tickets surged following a successful 1982 season. With a strong lineup poised to make another run for the pennant, Dodgers management set a cutoff date for season ticket sales to manage the overwhelming interest. Fans rushed to secure their seats, knowing the opportunity to witness the upcoming season’s action at Dodger Stadium was limited.
1997: Introduction Of The Chipper Jones Candy Bar
In 1997, Atlanta Braves superstar Chipper Jones became immortalized in candy form. The Chipper Jones Candy Bar hit the shelves, featuring milk chocolate and crunchy rice. Sales of the candy bar soared, as fans not only admired Jones’ prowess on the field but also enjoyed the sweet treat named after him.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
March 29 marks the birth of some remarkable MLB personalities who have made significant contributions to the game.
1917: Tommy Holmes
Tommy Holmes, born on this date in 1917, was a skilled hitter for the Boston Braves and Brooklyn Dodgers, famously setting a modern National League record with a 37-game hitting streak in 1945.
1944: Denny McLain
Denny McLain is best remembered for being the last pitcher in Major League Baseball to win more than 30 games in a season, a feat he accomplished in 1968.
1962: Billy Beane
Billy Beane became far more famous for his innovative management and talent acquisition strategies with the Oakland Athletics than for his playing career.