They saved the best for last. On this day in béisbol, July 21, 2019, six players were immortalized in a lengthy induction ceremony at baseball’s Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y. — including Yankees closer Mariano Rivera, the first player to be elected unanimously. The greatest closer in history, the product of a poverty-stricken childhood
Albert Pujols was just 24 but already a superstar when on this day in béisbol, July 20, 2004 the St. Louis slugger carried the team on his broad back in a thrilling comeback victory over the rival Cubs at Wrigley Field. Playing first and batting third, the future Hall of Famer hit three home runs
Long before Big Papi Ortiz became a beloved Red Sox icon, “El Tiante” — Luis Tiant, the cigar-chomping, cocksure yet cuddly Cuban pitcher known for his funky windup and winning ways — was the first Latino player to capture Beantown hearts. On this day in béisbol, July 18, 1964, Tiant made his MLB debut —
Perhaps only A-Rod could polarize fans, media and opposing teams alike more than Manny Machado, the San Diego Padres’ slick-fielding, trash-talking third baseman who quickly became one of the game’s best all-around players after his 2012 debut at age 19 with the Baltimore Orioles. On this day in béisbol, July 17, 2018, with the Orioles
It’s a shame Jose Ramirez bowed out of the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, depriving baseball fans who don’t often get a glimpse of the smallish-market Cleveland Guardians to witness one of baseball’s most consistent stars in the midst of another strong year. A rare combination of switch-hitting power and speed, Ramirez decided to rest the
For anyone who ever wondered why there’s a statue of Roberto Clemente at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, his accomplishments on this day in béisbol, July 17, 1970 proved why he was a once-in-a-generation immortal. In a thrilling 4-3 win against the Cincinnati Reds, the Pirates superstar showed off his five-tool skill set by hitting a
