1978 – The Sporting News announces the Gold Glove winners. Shortstop Mark Belanger wins for the eighth and final time, while first baseman Keith Hernandez and catcher Bob Boone are each honored for the first time.
The Baltimore Orioles sign pitcher Steve Stone, a reentry free agent formerly with the Chicago White Sox.
On November 28, 1978, The Cincinnati Reds fire their nine-year manager, Sparky Anderson, who had led the team to five Division titles, four National League pennants and two World Championships (in 1975 and 1976), and averaged 96 wins per season. The surprise move comes six days after the Reds return from a trip to Japan. Anderson has one year left on a contract…
1978 – Alan Ashby is acquired from Toronto for pitcher Mark Lemongello, outfielder Joe Cannon and a minor leaguer. Ashby becomes a stalwart in Houston for the next decade, hitting .252 and providing steady defense behind the plate.
1978 – Ford Motor Credit Company buys full control of the Astros by purchasing remaining shares from General Electric Credit Company. They intend to look for a new buyer, while rumors swirl that the franchise may be moved out of Houston.
Detroit Tigers second baseman Lou Whitaker wins the American League Rookie of the Year Award with 21 of 28 first-place votes over Paul Molitor of the Milwaukee Brewers. Whitaker will be the youngest AL Rookie of the Year until Mike Trout passes him in 2012.
The New York Yankees sign pitcher Tommy John, a reentry draft free agent formerly with the Dodgers. John will be a valuable addition to the Yankees, winning 43 games in the next two seasons.
1978 – Bob Horner of the Braves edges Ozzie Smith of San Diego to win the National League Rookie of the Year Award. Horner batted .266 with 23 home runs in just 323 at-bats after starting the season at Arizona State University before being the first overall pick of the June draft.
1978 – Pirates outfielder Dave Parker wins the National League Most Valuable Player Award, 320-194, over Dodgers first baseman Steve Garvey. Parker had 30 home runs with 117 RBI and league-leading figures in batting average (.334), slugging percentage (.585), and total bases (340).
On November 13, 1978, Boston Red Sox ace Luis Tiant signs a free agent contract with the rival New York Yankees. Tiant the first free agent to sign, signs a two-year $875,000 contract. The 38 year-old El Tiante will post 21-17 (.553) record during his tenure in New York, but will not appear in the…