1954 – Ironically, before he ever reaches the majors, in the midst of his only minor league season, comes Roberto Clemente’s greatest baseball birthday, his 20th, complete with a signature Clemente climax. Some national exposure ensues, courtesy of The Sporting News’s Lloyd McGowan: “Roberto Clemente, rookie Puerto Rican outfielder, turned in the key defensive play that enabled the Royals to edge Toronto, 8 to 7. With two out in the ninth, Clemente uncorked a perfect throw to cut down the Leafs’ potential tying run at the plate and end the game.”

This Day In Baseball

On August 18, 1954 — 1954 – Ironically, before he ever reaches the majors, in the midst of his only minor league season, comes Roberto Clemente’s greatest baseball birthday, his 20th, complete with a signature Clemente climax. Some national exposure ensues, courtesy of The Sporting News’s Lloyd McGowan: “Roberto Clemente, rookie Puerto Rican outfielder, turned in the key defensive play that enabled the Royals to edge Toronto, 8 to 7. With two out in the ninth, Clemente uncorked a perfect throw to cut down the Leafs’ potential tying run at the plate and end the game.”

Source:
Baseball Reference August 18
National Pastime
Retro Sheet
Hall of Fame
SABR Games Project
Replay The Game