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Today in Baseball History: February 9
On February 9, 1981, future Hall of Famer Joe Morgan signs a free agent contract with the San Francisco Giants. Morgan led the National League in walks in 1980, while helping the Houston Astros to the Western Division title.
On February 9, 1972, former California Angels infielder Chico Ruiz is killed in an auto accident, just 11 days before the start of spring training. The 33-year-old Ruiz had recently signed with the Kansas City Royals. In 1971, Ruiz had been involved in an incident with Angels’ teammate Alex Johnson, in which Ruiz allegedly threatened him with a gun. Ruiz denied the incident ever took place.
On February 9, 1971, former Negro Leagues star Satchel Paige is nominated for Hall of Fame consideration. On June 10, the newly-formed Special Committee on the Negro Leagues will elect Paige to the Hall.
On February 9, 1951, the St. Louis Browns sign the legendary Satchel Paige, who hasn’t pitched in the major leagues since 1949. The aging right-hander will struggle to a record of 3-4.
On February 9, 1920, the major leagues announce a rule change banning all “freak deliveries” by pitchers. The new rule outlaws pitchers from using grease, saliva, sandpaper, and other foreign substances on baseballs, except for 17 known “spitball” pitchers. They will be allowed to use the outlawed substances until their careers end.
On February 9, 1914, Bill Veeck is born in Chicago, Illinois. The future Hall of Famer will become an owner of three major league franchises: the Cleveland Indians, St. Louis Browns and Chicago White Sox. He will introduce an array of creative promotions, including fireworks and exploding scoreboards.
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Vic Wertz
Clete Boyer
Pete O'Brien
Heinie Zimmerman
Mookie Wilson
John Kruk
Vladimir Guerrero
Charley Bassett
Specs Toporcer
Todd Pratt
Buzz Boyle
Erv Palica
Tex Hughson
Roy Mahaffey
Jim Nash
Eddie Solomon
John Urrea
Moon Mullen
Jim Campanis
Pat Underwood
Doug Linton
Dutch Dietz
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