1968 – Lena Blackburne dies in Riverside, New Jersey, at age 81. A former major league infielder and manager, Blackburne has been the source for his eponymous rubbing mud, used by umpires in both leagues to rub down new balls. He leaves the mud business to his boyhood friend, John Haas.

This Day In Baseball

On February 28, 1968 — 1968 – Lena Blackburne dies in Riverside, New Jersey, at age 81. A former major league infielder and manager, Blackburne has been the source for his eponymous rubbing mud, used by umpires in both leagues to rub down new balls. He leaves the mud business to his boyhood friend, John Haas.

Source:
Baseball Reference February 28
SABR Games Project
National Pastime February 28
Hall of Fame
Replay The Game
Retro Sheet

Support us!
Own this Day and Be Part of Baseball History