Last Updated: April 30th, 2024 by Jake Cain
1901: Joe McGinnity’s Doubleheader Feat
On September 3, 1901, the baseball world witnessed Joe McGinnity, pitcher for the Baltimore Orioles, execute an unthinkable display of stamina. In a remarkable doubleheader against the Milwaukee Brewers, McGinnity not only started but also completed both games. This ironman performance underscored his nickname, “Iron Man,” a testament to his durability. To baseball fans, McGinnity’s back-to-back complete games remain a legendary example of grit on the mound, a story told with admiration to this day.
1917: Grover Alexander’s Double Win
On September 3, 1917, Grover Alexander showed what it means to have grit on the mound for the Philadelphia Phillies. He pitched and won both games in a doubleheader against the Brooklyn Dodgers, an impressive feat of endurance. Fans still tip their caps to Alexander’s legendary day; pitching a couple of innings is tough, but going the distance in two games? That’s something else. His arm must’ve felt like it was about to fall off afterward, but you wouldn’t know it from how he owned the game that day.
1928: Ty Cobb’s Final Hit
On September 3, 1928, Ty Cobb, baseball’s iconic figure, notched his final career hit while playing for the Philadelphia Athletics. Known as one of the game’s most proficient hitters, Cobb’s last swing added to his staggering hit tally. His time with the Athletics was his curtain call, after a storied 24-year career, primarily with the Detroit Tigers. The hit was more than just a number; it symbolized the end of an era for Cobb, celebrated for his intense competitiveness and remarkable batting skill.
1932: Jimmie Foxx Hits 50 Home Runs
In the annals of baseball, few feats stir the soul like a home run milestone, and in 1932, Jimmie Foxx, power-hitter extraordinaire for the Philadelphia Athletics, etched his name into that storied record book. His bat spoke loud and clear on a day that saw him launch his 50th and 51st home runs of the season, marking his entry into an exclusive circle of sluggers. Affectionately known as “Double X,” Foxx’s herculean effort that year would have folks buzzing from the bleachers to the barbershops.
Jimmie Foxx’s feat was a towering achievement in an era long before the advent of specialized training and high-tech equipment. It wasn’t just about the numbers; it was how he swung for the fences with a gusto that became the lore of the game. As fans, we tip our caps to a bygone time when a slugger of Foxx’s caliber sent the ball sailing and the crowd into a frenzy, forever a highlight reel in baseball history.
1947: Yankees’ Single-Filled Victory
On September 3, 1947, the New York Yankees dominated the Boston Red Sox with a decisive 11-2 victory. Remarkably, the Bronx Bombers‘ win was constructed purely with singles, a rare feat in an era that celebrated the home run. Tommy Henrich and Joe DiMaggio led the charge, showcasing their prowess at the plate with precision rather than power. Fans in the stands witnessed the kind of baseball savvy that made these players household names, with a knack for finding gaps and keeping the base paths busy.
1957: Dodgers’ Last Game In Jersey City
The Brooklyn Dodgers said goodbye to Jersey City on a bittersweet note in 1957. This game marked the end of an era for the Dodgers before their eventual move to Los Angeles. Local fans lamented as they watched their beloved team play one final time at Roosevelt Stadium. This moment in baseball history is a poignant reminder of the sport’s ever-changing landscape and the deep connection between a team and its community.
1957: Warren Spahn’s Shutout Record
Warren Spahn, the legendary southpaw for the Milwaukee Braves, reached a milestone that further solidified his dominance on the mound. On a day that etched his name deeper into baseball lore, Spahn recorded his 41st career shutout, setting a new standard for left-handed pitchers. Baseball purists still marvel at the finesse and endurance Spahn displayed throughout his career, especially considering he didn’t notch his first win until he was 25. His feat on September 3, 1957, was a testament to his control and skill, traits that kept batters guessing and fans cheering during an era graced with heavy hitters.
1965: Angels’ Name Change
In the heat of the 1965 season, the Angels, originally hailing from Los Angeles, made a pivotal change to their identity. It was on September 2nd that the team embraced a new moniker, becoming the California Angels. This switch came ahead of their move to a new home in Anaheim, establishing a fresh start for the club.
The change didn’t just reflect a new geographic stamp; it marked the beginning of a new era for the Angels. Fans and players alike witnessed this significant change during a season that would see the team finish with a 75-87 record. The team’s ongoing journey, from the Los Angeles Angels to their new California identity, symbolized a major shift in the franchise’s history, one that the baseball community watched with great interest.
1970: Billy Williams’ Consecutive Games Streak Ends
On September 3, 1970, Cubs’ star Billy Williams made a personal decision to sit out, thus ending his impressive streak of consecutive games played. Until that day, Williams had been a model of durability in the National League, showing up game after game without fail. His streak stretched to a remarkable 1,117 games, making him a staple in the Cubs’ lineup since 1963. Baseball aficionados still tip their caps to Williams, not just for the streak, but for his consistent presence and performance that became a part of Wrigley Field’s rich history.
1974: John Montefusco’s Remarkable Debut
On September 3, 1974, John Montefusco made an unforgettable entrance into the majors as a pitcher for the San Francisco Giants. Not only did he secure a win in a lengthy relief appearance, but he also surprised fans by smashing a home run in his first at-bat. His standout performance began a promising career that would include accolades such as the National League Rookie of the Year Award. That day, Montefusco set the tone for what would be a dynamic and noteworthy presence on the mound in the years to follow.
1977: Sadaharu Oh’s Home Run Milestone
On September 3, 1977, Japanese baseball fans witnessed a historic moment when Sadaharu Oh hit his 756th home run. This remarkable homer not only wowed the crowd but also propelled him past Hank Aaron’s total, marking a new world record. He became the guy who took the home run crown to a whole new level. While everyone knew Aaron as the home run king, on that day, it was Oh who sat on the global throne of long balls.
1981: Fenway Park’s Longest Game
On September 3, 1981, Fenway Park was home to an unforgettable marathon as the Boston Red Sox and the Seattle Mariners squared off in what became the ballpark’s longest game. This epic contest stretched over two days, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The Red Sox and the Mariners battled through innings after innings, but neither team gave an inch, turning what you’d expect to be a regular game into a legendary struggle. It was the kind of game that had fans checking their watches, wondering if they’d make history just by sticking it out to the end.
1986: Astros-Cubs Marathon Game
In a legendary showdown, the Astros and Cubs battled for 18 innings, making it one for the books. A whopping 53 players stepped onto the field that day, setting a Major League record. Neither team would back down, stretching the duel well into extra innings. Ultimately, it was the Astros who celebrated victory, but both teams left their mark in baseball lore with their epic endurance test.
1990: Bobby Thigpen’s Save Record
On September 3, 1990, Bobby Thigpen etched his name into baseball annals by clinching the most saves in a single season. Wearing the Chicago White Sox uniform, Thigpen secured his 47th save, surpassing the previous record and setting the new high-water mark. His arm helped seal tight victories all season, causing opponents to dread seeing him take the mound late in the game. Thigpen finished the year with an incredible 57 saves, a record that stood for 18 years until it was broken in 2008.
Today’s Baseball Birthdays
September 3 is a special day in baseball history, boasting a roster of past players who’ve taken the field. Let’s tip our hats to these legends born on this day.
1916: Eddie Stanky
Eddie Stanky, known as “The Brat” for his fiery demeanor, was a master of getting on base. His knack for drawing walks and pestering pitchers made him a valuable infielder and a three-time All-Star.
1936: Steve Boros
Steve Boros wasn’t just a third baseman; after his playing days, he turned into a revered manager and baseball innovator. His forward-thinking approach to the use of computers in the game showed his willingness to push the envelope.
1967: Luis Gonzalez
Luis Gonzalez hit one of the most famous World Series-clinching singles for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2001. His smooth swing and clutch hitting have lodged him in the memory of fans as a baseball hero.