Last Updated: April 30th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1902: Tinker, Evers, And Chance First Lineup Appearance
On September 1, 1902, a trio that would become legendary for their double-play artistry made their debut on the diamond together. Joe Tinker took his place at third base, Johnny Evers covered shortstop, and Frank Chance held down first base. This initial alignment marked the beginning of what would become one of the most iconic infields in baseball history. Their synergy on the field quickly made them household names as they turned double plays with a rhythm and efficiency that left fans and opponents in awe.
1906: Twenty-Four Innings Marathon
On September 1, 1906, baseball fans witnessed an endurance showdown that stretched a mind-boggling 24 innings. Philadelphia Athletics’ Jack Coombs and Boston Red Sox’s Joe Harris went the distance on the mound, each refusing to yield to the bullpen. Coombs managed to rack up an impressive total of eighteen strikeouts during the extended play.
Folks still talk about that day, when these two iron-armed pitchers made baseball history; their tenacity turned the game into an extraordinary marathon. They probably could’ve pitched another game right after if they hadn’t agreed to call it a day and cancel the second game of the doubleheader.
1918: Ty Cobb And George Sisler Pitch Matchup
On September 1, 1918, baseball witnessed a rare pitching duel between two legends mostly known for their batting prowess. Ty Cobb, the Detroit star usually feared for his batting, took the mound for two innings against the St. Louis Browns. Meanwhile, the Browns had their own shining hitter, George Sisler, showcase his pitching skills for one inning which culminated in a scoreless performance.
Adding to his day’s work, Sisler also managed to hit a double off Cobb, demonstrating his dual-threat capability on the field. In a game that was an unusual sight for fans of the sport, the Browns emerged victorious with a final score of 6-2. This matchup remains a unique anecdote, highlighting the versatility and athletic ability of two of baseball’s finest during the early 20th century.
1931: Lou Gehrig’s Grand Slam Streak
In an astonishing display of power, Lou Gehrig crushed his third grand slam in just four days against the Boston Red Sox. His hot streak didn’t stop there, as he also knocked out a home run in six consecutive games, showcasing his prowess at the plate. Gehrig’s performance helped the Yankees clinch yet another win, solidifying his legacy as one of the game’s finest sluggers. Baseball fans still speak in awe of that September in ’31, when Gehrig was unstoppable, his bat speaking louder than words ever could.
1954: Ted Kluszewski Sets Club Home Run Record
In 1954, Ted Kluszewski took a mighty swing and made Cincinnati Reds history, belting his way to a spectacular record. Smashing not one, but two homers, Big Klu outdid himself, surpassing his previous high-water mark set just a year earlier. Fans at the ballpark witnessed the slugger notch up to an impressive forty-nine home runs that season, a feat that left pitchers shaking in their cleats. His powerful display that day etched his name in the Reds’ annals, celebrating a season that would have any baseball aficionado tipping their cap in awe.
1958: Vinegar Bend Mizell’s Shutout With Nine Walks
In the annals of baseball history, they talk about pitchers with pinpoint control, but even on an off day, a great arm can still make magic happen. Take Vinegar Bend Mizell in ’58, for instance. Steering clear of the strike zone enough to walk nine guys, Mizell still pulled off the unheard of: a shutout win for the St. Louis Cardinals—beating the Cincinnati Reds with the slimmest of margins, 1-0. That day at the ballpark, Mizell didn’t just etch his name in the National League record books; he left fans and batters alike scratching their heads—how do you give free passes to nine and still keep the slate clean?
1963: Curt Simmons’ Multi-Task Performance
On a memorable first of September in 1963, Curt Simmons turned a regular game into an exhibition of his multifarious talents. Simmons, donning the St. Louis Cardinals’ colors, held the Phillies to just six hits in an impressive defensive display. But Simmons wasn’t just content with his pitching; he also brought the heat with his bat, smashing a triple that sent his teammates scurrying home to score. If that wasn’t enough, Simmons pulled off the high-wire act of stealing home, etching that day as a testament to his versatile skills in Cardinals lore.
1964: Masanori Murakami, First Japanese Major Leaguer
In 1964, Masanori Murakami made history as the first Japanese player to break into Major League Baseball with the San Francisco Giants. Beginning his stint with a remarkable eleven innings without allowing a run, he quickly grabbed fans’ attention and laid the groundwork for future Japanese talent in the MLB. Murakami’s successful debut season not only highlighted his pitching prowess but also marked a significant moment of integration in baseball history. His journey in the United States opened doors and set a precedent, signaling a new era for international players in the American baseball scene.
1975: Tom Seaver’s Strikeout Milestone
In the 1975 season, Tom Seaver, pitching for the New York Mets, became a legend not just for the team, but in the annals of baseball history. He set an unrivaled record when he became the first pitcher to strike out at least 200 batters across eight consecutive seasons. This achievement came as the Mets won against the Pittsburgh Pirates, sealing Seaver’s reputation for consistency and dominance on the mound. His impressive tally of strikeouts that year crowned him with his fifth National League strikeout title, a testament to his skill and a delight for baseball aficionados who marvel at such feats.
1987: The Hidden Potato Incident
In one of baseball’s more bizarre moments, Dave Bresnahan, catcher for the Williamsport Bills, pulled off a prank for the ages. During a game against the Reading Phillies, Bresnahan switched out the baseball for a peeled potato and threw the spud to third, deceiving everyone into thinking he had made a wild throw. As the runner took off for home, Bresnahan revealed the actual ball and tagged him out, but the umpire wasn’t buying it—the runner was called safe. Despite the outcome, this stunt secured Bresnahan’s place in baseball infamy, creating a humorous story that fans and players still chuckle about today.
1989: Bart Giamatti’s Untimely Death
On September 1, 1989, the baseball world was rocked by the sudden passing of Bart Giamatti, the Commissioner of Major League Baseball. He was just 51 years old when he succumbed to a heart attack. His tenure as Commissioner was brief, having served only five months; nonetheless, those months were marked by a significant decision that resonated throughout baseball: the lifetime ban of Pete Rose over gambling allegations.
Giamatti’s death came as a shock and was a severe loss for the sport. Prior to his role as Commissioner, he had a distinguished academic career, including a presidency at Yale University. His love for the game was deep, exemplified by his efforts to maintain the integrity of baseball during his short stint at the helm. Giamatti was known for his intellect and passion, qualities that made him a respected figure among fans and within the baseball community.
1995: Sparky Anderson’s 4000th Game
Sparky Anderson, the Detroit Tigers’ skipper, hit a significant landmark in his managing career, overseeing his 4,000th game. On that day, despite his team not clinching a win against the Cleveland Indians, the moment was a testament to his longevity in the game. Fans and players alike tipped their hats to Anderson, who was already esteemed for leading two different teams to World Series victories. His leadership from the dugout had become a familiar sight in baseball, with a career that stretched across decades and etched his name in baseball lore.
1998: Mark McGwire Breaks NL Home Run Record
On September 1, 1998, Mark McGwire made baseball history by smashing his 56th and 57th home runs of the season. With each crack of the bat, he sailed past Hack Wilson’s long-standing National League record set in 1930. Big Mac’s power-hitting display that season was nothing short of a spectacle, capturing the imagination of fans across America. He wasn’t just hitting them out; he was rewriting the record books and etching his name among baseball’s elite sluggers.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
This section celebrates the lives and careers of baseball players born on September 1st, a date that has given the sport some truly memorable talents.
1850: Jim O’Rourke
Jim O’Rourke, born in 1850, was one of the pioneers of baseball, starting his professional career in the 1870s. He was known for his versatility, playing every position except for shortstop at some point. O’Rourke also had a notable bat, racking up over 2,000 hits.
1939: Rico Carty
Celebrating his birthday today is Rico Carty, the Dominican outfielder who became a household name with the Braves. He won the National League batting title in 1970 and was known for his incredible hitting skills.
1949: Garry Maddox
Garry Maddox, “The Secretary of Defense,” was born on this day. He earned this nickname due to his exceptional defensive play in center field, snagging eight Gold Gloves throughout his career. Maddox was a key player for the Phillies, especially during their 1980 World Series run.