Judge Irving Cooper upholds baseball’s reserve clause in turning back the lawsuit filed by Curt Flood
udge Irving Cooper upholds baseball’s reserve clause in turning back the lawsuit filed by Curt Flood
St. Louis Cardinals star Curt Flood against Major League Baseball begins its hearing in federal court
On May 19, 1970, the lawsuit filed by former St. Louis Cardinals star Curt Flood against Major League Baseball begins its hearing in federal court. Judge Irving Ben Cooper presides over the case, which will result in the upholding of baseball’s reserve clause.
Hoyt Wilhelm of the Atlanta Braves becomes the first pitcher in major league history to appear in 1,000 games
On May 10, 1970, Hoyt Wilhelm of the Atlanta Braves becomes the first pitcher in major league history to appear in 1,000 games. Wilhelm, who will gain election to the Hall of Fame in 1985, pitches a scoreless inning of relief during a 6-5 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals. The 47 year-old Braves’ knuckleballer…
Curt Flood files a lawsuit challenging the reserve clause
On January 16 1970 — Gold Glove outfielder Curt Flood files a lawsuit challenging the reserve clause, which binds major league players to teams perpetually. Flood had been traded by the St. Louis Cardinals to the Philadelphia Phillies on October 7, 1969, but has refused to report to the Phillies. Flood contends that the…
New York Mets clinch their first post-season berth
On September 24, 1969, the New York Mets clinch their first post-season berth, wrapping up the first National League East title. The Mets defeat the St. Louis Cardinals, 6-0, At Shea Stadium to officially eliminate the Chicago Cubs from contention. The Mets will go on to win the World Series… Mets starter Gary Gentry four-hits…
Bob Gibson becomes the seventh pitcher in National League history to strike out the side on nine pitches.
On May 12, 1969, At Busch Stadium, St. Louis Cardinals fireballer Bob Gibson becomes the seventh pitcher in National League history to strike out the side on nine pitches. In the 7th inning Gibson fans, Len Gabrielson, Paul Popovich and Pinch Hitter John Miller. Gibson (4-2) beats the Los Angeles Dodgers, 6-2. Gibson also went…
Montreal Expos host their first game north of the border
On April 14, 1969, the expansion Montreal Expos host their first game north of the border, marking the first time a regular season major league game is played outside of the United States. 29,417 fans came to see the Expos win their debut at Jarry Park, edging the St. Louis Cardinals, 8-7. Montreal moundsman Larry…
Bob Gibson of the St. Louis Cardinals wins his first Cy Young Award
On October 27, 1968 Future Hall of Famer Bob Gibson of the St. Louis Cardinals wins his first Cy Young Award. Gibson is a unanimous choice after dominating hitters with a 22-9 record and an ERA of 1.12 during the “Year of the Pitcher.”
Mickey Lolich wins his 3rd game of series clinching the title for Detroit
On October 10, 1968, Mickey Lolich of the Detroit Tigers notched his third win of the World Series. Lolich defeats Bob Gibson and St. Louis Cardinals, 4-1, to give the Tigers the title. The win comes after the Tigers had lost three of the first four games. The scoreless game turns on a Jim…
Bob Gibson strikes out 17 Detroit Tigers to set world series record
On October 2, 1968, “Someone should have warned us that he changed his clothes in a phone booth before he got to the park and took off the suit with the big S on it.” – NORM CASH, Tiger first baseman commenting on Bob Gibson‘s commanding performance in Game 1 of the 1968 World Series….
