On June 29, 1983, former major league sensation Mark “The Bird” announces his retirement. The 1976 American League Rookie of the Year had been attempting a comeback in the minor leagues, but was struggling with a record of 2-5 and an ERA of 9.68 for the Pawtucket Red Sox.
The news came after a packed house at McCoy Stadium seen Him face off against future Yankee Great Dave Righetti.