At Union Terminal Tower, Frankie Pytlak and Hank Helf, catchers for the Indians, establish record for catching baseballs dropped from a high altitude. The balls fall an estimated 708 feet and travel an average speed of 140 mph during their 52-floor descent from Cleveland’s enduring landmark, the second-tallest building in the world.

This Day In Baseball

On August 20, 1938 — At Union Terminal Tower, Frankie Pytlak and Hank Helf, catchers for the Indians, establish record for catching baseballs dropped from a high altitude. The balls fall an estimated 708 feet and travel an average speed of 140 mph during their 52-floor descent from Cleveland’s enduring landmark, the second-tallest building in the world.

Support This Day In Baseball on Patreon

Sources:
Baseball Reference August 20
National Pastime August 20
Retro Sheet
Hall of Fame
SABR Games Project
Replay The Game