On April 19, 1890 — The Brooklyn Bridegrooms, who will later be known as the Dodgers, play their first National League game. At South End Grounds, the former American Association club loses to the host Boston Beaneaters, 15 – 9.

The offense is needed as starter John Clarkson commits 9 errors. Herman Long makes his National League debut with a Homerun in the 3^rd and 8^th innings, off Bobby Caruthers and Bill Terry. Putting his name in the record books is Pop Smith who is the first player to reach base six times (5 BB, 1 HBP) with no at bats. Walt Wilmot will do it next year with six walks.

Brooklyn would go on to win the pennant in their first season in a new league, following their title in a different major league the previous season.

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Sources:

Baseball Reference April 19

SABR Games Project

National Pastime April 19

Hall of Fame

Retro Sheet