September 22, 1953, Ebbets Field, only 2,365 fans see Jackie Robinson’s only career appearance at shortstop, at his request (1st SS start since Negro Leagues). Jackie had 3 assists and 2 putouts (Photo: snaring liner in 5th off the bat of Danny O’Connell below) as Brooklyn wrapped up a 60-17 home record in ‘53…
Gene Baker, the other half of the Kansas City Monarchs double play duo along with Ernie Banks, joins his former Negro League teammate, making his major league debut with the Cubs. In 1961, the second baseman will be named manager of the minor league Batavia, New York team, becoming the first black manager in organized baseball.
1953 – The St. Louis Cardinals appeal the U.S. claim for $215,025 in back taxes from 1947-1949.
Ellis Kinder of the Red Sox sets the American League record for most relief appearances with 62.
Ernie Banks becomes the first black player to appear in a Cubs’ game. The former Kansas City Monarch infielder, who makes an error and is hitless in three at-bats, will go on to hit 512 home runs, as well as winning the MVP award twice during his 19-year Hall of Fame career.
Ferris Fain of the White Sox is sued for $50,000 for his part in an August brawl in a Maryland cafe.
Reds GM Gabe Paul announces he has fired manager Rogers Hornsby without giving an explanation for the dismissal of the 57 year-old Hall of Famer. The Rajah, who has lost six managerial positions during his long baseball career, will be replaced by on an interim basis by coach Buster Mills, who will take over the 64-82 club with eight games left to play in the season.
With a record of 64-82, the Cincinnati Reds fire Rogers Hornsby as their manager with 8 games left in the season. Coach Buster Mills replaces him for the remainder of the year.
The Yanks clinch their 5th straight pennant with an 8 – 5 win over the Indians. 2B Billy Martin has 4 RBI.
Johnny Klippstein of the Cubs stops Duke Snider’s hitting streak at 27 consecutive games, the longest in the National League this year. The Cubs win, 3 – 1, for their 10th win in a row.