1975 – The Astros explode for eight runs in the seventh to topple the Padres, 8-2. J.R. Richard starts the scoring with a two-run single. Roger Metzger ends it in the same manner. Jose Cruz has two hits in the inning. Richard tosses a five-hitter.
Roy White of the New York Yankees again hits home runs from both sides of the plate, this time in an 11 – 7 loss to the Boston Red Sox. White last switch-hit home runs on August 13, 1973.
The Astros retire Don Wilson’s number 40 posthumously in tribute to the right-hander, who was found dead of asphyxiation by carbon monoxide in the garage of his family’s home in January. The 29 year-old fireballer, the author of an 18 strikeout game that tied a major league record, spent nine seasons with Houston, compiling a record of 104-92 along with an ERA of 3.15.
1975 – On the Dome’s 10th Anniversary, Houston drills the Braves with six runs in the fourth and eight more in the seventh for a 14-2 massacre. Doug Rader, Roger Metzger and Enos Cabell lead the assault with three hits apiece.
In the season opener at Fenway Park, Tony Conigliaro, who retired four years ago after being traded to the Angels in 1970, plays in the first game of his attempted comeback with the Red Sox. As a designated hitter, the 30 year-old Pope of Kenmore Square, who will collect only seven hits in 21 games, singles in his first at-bat in Boston’s 5-2 victory over the Brewers.
1975 – Setting the baseball fashion world on its ear, the Astros introduce the rainbow uniform to major league baseball, humbling the Braves in a 6-2 season opener. Jose Cruz homers in his first game as an Astro.
A rare spring training brawl takes place when Ranger second baseman Dave Nelson takes exception to the two brushback pitches thrown at him by Yankee southpaw Mike Wallace in the seventh inning of an exhibition contest at played Fort Lauderdale. The trouble begins brewing early when Jim Bibby’ first pitch of the game plunks the shoulder New York’s leadoff hitter Elliot Maddox, who had deeply angered Texas skipper Billy Martin when he told the local press that his former manager “has a habit of lying to his players.”
1975 – In Las Vegas, Nevada, the late Roberto Clemente joins Roy Campanella and twelve other sports figures, living and dead, as this year’s inductees in the Black Athletes’ Hall of Fame.
1975 – Former Boston Red Sox star Tony Conigliaro begins a comeback attempt by signing a contract with Triple-A Pawtucket, Boston’s top affiliate in the International League. “Tony C” will make the Red Sox major league roster, but will hit only .123 in 57 at-bats before deciding to retire.
1974 – The Little League is officially open to girls as U.S. President Gerald Ford signs legislation amending the charter of the organization. Little League had sought changes in their charter after a series of lawsuits challenged its boys-only rule.
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