Kansas City A’s’ owner Charlie Finley hires Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio as vice-president
On October 22, 1967, Kansas City A’s’ owner Charlie Finley hires Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio as vice-president. “Joe D.” will also serve as a coach with the A’s.
American League owners approve the transfer of the Kansas City A’s to Oakland
On October 18, 1967, The American League owners grant Charlie Finley permission to move the Kansas City Athletics to Oakland, California, in time for the start of the 1968 season. Kansas City is promised a new team by 1971, but when Senator Stuart Symington and Kansas City Mayor Ilus Davis threaten action against the move, AL President Joe Cronin reopens talks. The expansion deadline is moved forward to 1969, and will award new franchises to Kansas City and Seattle, the Pilots, will play in Seattle, an ill-advised decision given the fact that new owners will prove to be under-financed.
Ken “Hawk” Harrelson of the Kansas City A’s becomes baseball’s first free agent
On August 21, 1967, Ken “Hawk” Harrelson of the Kansas City A’s becomes baseball’s first free agent when he is “fired” by team owner Charlie Finley. Harrelson had drawn the wrath of Finley by allegedly referring to him as a “menace” to baseball. Remaining unemployed for only a few days, Harrelson will sign on with…
The A’s select future Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson in the first round (2nd pick) of the amateur draft. The Mets, with the first overall pick, choose Steve Chilcott, a high school catcher who will never play a day in the major league.
The A’s select future Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson in the first round (2nd pick) of the amateur draft. The Mets, with the first overall pick, choose Steve Chilcott, a high school catcher who will never play a day in the major league.
Bert Campaneris of the Kansas City A’s becomes the first major leaguer to play all nine positions in a game
On September 8, 1965, Bert Campaneris of the Kansas City A’s becomes the first major leaguer to play all nine positions in a game. Campy accomplishes the unusual feat, which was prompted by A’s’ owner Charlie Finley, during a 5-3 loss to the California Angels. Usually a shortstop, Campy catches the ninth inning and is…
