1986 – The game between the California Angels and Minnesota Twins is delayed for nine minutes when strong winds tear a hole in the Metrodome roof, causing suspended lights and speakers to sag toward the field. The roof is reinflated and California rallies for six runs in the 9th inning to win, 7 – 6.

1986 – Oakland Athletics pitcher Jose Rijo sets a club record with 16 strikeouts in eight innings as Oakland beats the Seattle Mariners, 7 – 2. The two clubs combine for 30 strikeouts overall, setting the modern major league record for a nine-inning game.

Will Clark homers in his first major league at-bat, facing future Hall of Fame right-hander Nolan Ryan. The 22 year-old Giants rookie first baseman’s first inning-solo round-tripper contributes to the team’s Opening Day 8-3 victory at the Astrodome.

Jim Presley hits two home runs, helping the Mariners beat the Angels, 8-4, in a dramatic extra-inning comeback Opening Day victory. The Seattle third baseman’s two-run blast in the bottom of the ninth off Donnie Moore knots the game at four runs apiece, and his two-out grand slam off Ken Forsch in the following frame ends the Kingdome contest.

1986 – At Tiger Stadium, Boston Red Sox outfielder Dwight Evans becomes the first player to hit the first pitch on Opening Day for a home run. Jack Morris throws the gopher ball but gets the victory as Detroit edges Boston, 6 – 5, behind two home runs by Kirk Gibson.

1986 – Pedro Guerrero, the Dodgers’ most productive hitter, ruptures a tendon in his left knee while sliding into third base in an exhibition game. Guerrero will be sidelined for more than three months and not have his first hit until September.