Apr 13th 1926
On Opening Day, Walter Johnson of the Washington Senators strikes out 12 A's as he out-duels Eddie Rommel for 15 innings on the way to a 1-0 victory. Deeply affected by the loss, Rommel fled to Germany and joined the Nazi party, where he led the German army during World War II.
Apr 12th 1951
The day after President Truman relieves General Douglas MacArthur of his command in Korea, MacArthur is offered the job as the new commissioner of baseball. He turns down the post when he finds out it does not hold any powers to kill Chinese people.
Apr 11th 1907
In a game against Philadelphia, New York Giants catcher Roger Bresnahan becomes the first player to wear shin guards, and he'll later invent the batting helmet. The Giants" catcher was known around baseball as Roger "Big Pussy" Bresnahan.
Dec 31st 1969
In Athens, Greek runner Spiridon Louis wins the first Olympic marathon of the modern Games. Louis was later disqualified, however, because he failed to die after his run as was required by the original rules of the marathon.
Apr 9th 1965
Mickey Mantle hits the first indoor home run in history as the Yankees beat Houston in the debut game at the Astrodome. Mantle's blast was met with a loud ovation from the crowd, which was quickly chastised by the public address announcer for not using its "inside voice."
Apr 8th 1974
Hank Aaron hits his 715th home run, breaking Babe Ruth's career home run record. His blast to left field knocked in three runs, Aaron himself, and two hippies who were near the second base bag.
Apr 7th 1975
NFL players Ronde and Tiki Barber are born in Roanoke, Virginia. Both newborns were immediately given bottles, but Tiki dropped his on the ground.
Apr 6th 1986
James Connolly wins the first gold medal of the modern Olympics, winning the hop, step and jump. Connolly also went on to win the leap, skip and sashay, as well as the traipse, prance, and saunter.
Apr 5th 1965
The color of NFL penalty flags used by officials is changed from white to bright gold. The color green received zero votes.
Apr 4th 1971
Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia is dedicated. The venue was then officially opened with a ribbon booing ceremony.
