Happy Thursday, everyone! This episode is coming out a little later in the week than I’d hoped, but there’s some great moments to learn about and re-live.
May 13, 1958: Stan Musial Collects His 3,000th Hit
On May 13, 1958, St. Louis Cardinals legend Stan Musial collected his 3,000th career hit, joining the exclusive 3,000 Hit Club. The historic hit came in a game against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Musial’s milestone hit was a pinch-hit double in the sixth inning off pitcher Moe Drabowsky.
Musial’s achievement was celebrated by fans and teammates alike, as he became the eighth player in Major League history to reach the 3,000-hit mark.
“It’s a great honor to join such an elite group of players,” Musial said. “I’ve always strived for consistency and excellence, and this milestone is a testament to that effort.”
May 14, 1967: Mickey Mantle’s 500th Home Run
New York Yankees legend Mickey Mantle hit his 500th career home run on this day in 1967, joining the exclusive 500 Home Run Club. The milestone homer came in the seventh inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Yankee Stadium. His powerful swing sent the ball into the right-field seats.
Mantle became the sixth player in Major League history to reach the 500-home run mark.
“It’s a great honor to join such a prestigious group,” Mantle said. “I couldn’t have done it without the support of my team and the fans.”
May 15, 1981: Len Barker’s Perfect Game
Cleveland Indians pitcher Len Barker threw a perfect game against the Toronto Blue Jays, becoming the 10th pitcher in Major League history to achieve this rare feat.
His perfect game took place at Cleveland Stadium, where he struck out 11 batters and did not allow a single baserunner in a 3-0 victory.
Barker’s dominance on the mound was evident from the start, as he consistently hit his spots and baffled Blue Jays hitters with his fastball and curveball.
“Everything was working for me that night,” Barker recalled. “It’s something every pitcher dreams of, and I’m glad I could achieve it.”
May 16, 1954: Ted Williams Returns from Military Service
Boston Red Sox legend Ted Williams returned to Major League Baseball after serving in the Korean War, hitting a home run in his first at-bat back. Williams, known as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history, demonstrated his remarkable talent by seamlessly transitioning back to the game.
Fans eagerly anticipated Williams' return, and he did not disappoint, launching a homer over the Green Monster at Fenway Park against the Detroit Tigers.
“It was great to be back on the field,” Williams said. I missed the game and the fans, and I’m happy to contribute to the team’s success.”
Williams’ career, interrupted twice by military service, remains a testament to his extraordinary skill and dedication.
May 17, 1970: Hank Aaron’s 3,000th Hit
Atlanta Braves’ icon Hank Aaron collected his 3,000th career hit, becoming the ninth player in Major League history to reach this milestone. He was, however, the first to reach 3,000 while also recording 500 career homers.
Aaron’s historic hit came in a game against the Cincinnati Reds at Crosley Field. It was a sharp single to center field off Reds pitcher Wayne Simpson. The crowd erupted in applause, acknowledging Aaron’s remarkable achievement.
“It’s an honor to join the 3,000-hit club,” Aaron said. “I’ve always tried to be consistent at the plate, and this milestone means a lot to me.”
May 18, 2004: Randy Johnson’s Perfect Game
Arizona Diamondbacks’ pitcher Randy Johnson threw a perfect game against the Atlanta Braves, becoming the oldest pitcher in Major League history to accomplish this feat at 40 years old.
Johnson’s perfect game took place at Turner Field, where he struck out 13 batters in a 2-0 victory.
Johnson’s performance was a masterclass in pitching, as he dominated the Braves with his signature fastball and devastating slider.
“I felt in control from the first pitch,” Johnson said. “It’s an incredible feeling to achieve something like this at this point in my career.”
May 19, 1956: Dale Long’s Home Run Streak Begins
Pittsburgh Pirates’ first baseman Dale Long began his record-setting streak of eight consecutive games with a home run. Long’s first homer in this streak came against the Philadelphia Phillies at Forbes Field, setting the stage for a remarkable display of power hitting.
Long’s streak would eventually tie him with Ken Griffey Jr. and Don Mattingly for the most consecutive games with a home run in Major League history.
“I just got into a groove,” Long said. “Everything I hit seemed to find its way over the fence.”
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This Week in Baseball History: May 13-19