This Date In Washington Senators history...

[Aa3rt]

In an effort to stimulate some interest here in the SENATORS forum I'm going to try to chronicle events in Washington Senators history (both franchises-the original Senators [1901-1960] and the expansion Senators [1961-1971]).

As my time is somewhat limited, I won't be able to research this topic as thoroughly as I would like. Other BBF.com members are welcome, and encouraged, to add your contributions.

[Aa3rt]

The expansion Washington Senators debut in typical fashion-losing to the Chicago White Sox 4-3. President John F. Kennedy is among the 26,725 attendees who see Roy Sievers homer and drive in the winning run with a sacrifice fly.

Roy Sievers played 17 seasons in the major leagues including stints with both the original and expansion Senators. Roy holds the distinction of being the only player to have played for the St. Louis Browns and both versions of the Senators.

Roy Sievers' Career Record (courtesy Baseball Almanac) (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=sievero01)

April 10, 1913 Walter Johnson is the winning pitcher in an Opening Day 2-1 win against the New York Yankees. This is the first game the New York team appears as the "Yankees", having changed their name from "Highlanders". President Woodrow Wilson is in attendance.

Senators Birthdays

William Clifton (Cliff) Bolton B April 10, 1907 D April 21, 1979

A catcher (and one time outfielder) for the Senators in 1931, 1933-1936 & 1941. Also played for the Detroit Tigers in 1937.

Cliff Bolton Career Record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=boltocl01)

Roger Francis Wolff B April 10, 1911 D March 23, 1994

Pitched for the Senators from 1944-1946. Also played for the Philadelphia Athletics, Indians and Pirates.

Roger Wolff Career Record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=wolffro01)

[Aa3rt]

1961-The Minnesota Twins, the relocated original Washington franchise, playing their first "official" game, defeat the New York Yankees 6-0 in Yankee Stadium.

1966-Another Opening Day "first": Almost 19 years to the day after Jackie Robinson broke baseball's color barrier, Emmett Ashford debuts as major league baseball's first African-American umpire after toiling in the minors for 15 years.

More on Emmett Ashford (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emmett_L._Ashford)

The Senators lose (what else?) to the Cleveland Indians 5-2.

Senators Birthdays

Scott Russell Cary Apr. 11, 1923 Still living

Pitcher Scott Cary appeared in 23 games for the 1947 Senators, compiling a W/L record of 3-1 with an ERA of 5.93.

Scott Cary career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=carysc01)

Spencer Armstrong Pumpelly B Apr. 11, 1893 D Dec. 5, 1973

Another pitcher who only appeared in one game in the majors, Spencer Pumpelly's only appearance with the Senators came on July 11, 1925 when he pitched in 1 inning, giving up a home run. His career ERA naturally is 9.0.

Spencer Pumpelly career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=pumpesp01)

Arthur Lincoln Quirk B Apr. 11, 1938 Still living

Art Quirk's 2 year career found him appearing in 7 games with the Baltimore Orioles in 1962 and another 7 games with the Senators in 1963. In Washington, he compiled a 1-0 record with an ERA of 4.29.

Art Quirk career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=quirkar01)

[Aa3rt]

1910 President William Howard Taft, 27th president of the United States starts an American tradition by throwing out the ceremonial "first pitch".

Catching the ball is Senators pitcher Walter Johnson who throws a one-hitter, winning 3-0 over the Philadelphia Athletics. The only hit for the A's is a Frank Baker double.

1961 Washington's expansion Senators, playing their first home game in Griffith Stadium, even their record at 1-1 with a 3-2 win over the Cleveland Indians. Washington pitcher Joe McClain throws a 7 hit complete game. A crowd of 10,126 attend the Friday contest in what would be the last opening day at Griffith.

Senators Birthday: Frank Bertania B April 14, 1944. Still living.

Getting his big league start with the Baltimore Orioles, Bertania played for the Orioles, Senators and Cardinals, playing two separate stints in Baltimore.

Frank Bertania career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=bertafr01)

[Steve Jeltz]

April 15, 1957-President Dwight Eisenhower throws out the traditional first pitch of the year. The ball that the President tossed was the 10th millionth Spalding baseball to be used in Major League Baseball play. Camilo Pascual suffers the defeat as the Senators fall to the Orioles 7-6 in 11 innings in front of 37,223 at Griffith Stadium.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/WS1/WS1195704150.shtml

Senators Birthday

Elmer John Gedeon B Apr. 15, 1917 D Apr. 20, 1944

Elmer Gedeon appeared in 5 games as an outfielder for the Senators in 1939. He went 3 for 15 at bat, working out to a .200 BA. Sadly he would be killed on April 20, 1944, five days after his 27th birthday, when his plane was shot down in France, making him the first major league player to be killed during World War II. (See April 20th's entry.)

Elmer Gedeon career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=gedeoel01)

[Aa3rt]

1913 Having already defeated the newly renamed New York Yankees on Opening Day in Washington, the Senators travel to New York for the Yankees first ever game at the Polo Grounds. The Senators spoil New York's debut, winning 9-3.

1951 In the first ever "Opening Day" night game, the Senators defeat the Philadelphia Athletics 6-1 in Philly.

1953 The Senators lose 7-3 to the Yankees at Griffith Stadium. Mickey Mantle hits a titanic home run off Washington pitcher Chuck Stobbs. The hit is supposedly measured to have travelled 565 feet, beginning the era of the "tape measure" home run.

Senators Birthdays

The Senators go 0 for April 17-there are no birthdays to report today.

[Aa3rt]

1960 Playing their last season in Washington, the original Senators start the season with a 10-1 win over the Boston Red Sox.

Ted Williams, playing in his last season, would hit a 500 foot home run in his first at bat, giving him a career total of 493, tying him with Lou Gehrig.

However, that would be the only offense the Red Sox would mount as the Senators would come up with 4 home runs of their own hit by Jim Lemon, Bob Allison, Earl Battey and Billy Consolo.

Camilio Pascual gets the win for the Senators, Tom Sturdivant is charged with the loss for the Red Sox.

Senators Birthdays

A quartet of birthdays on April 18th...

Edward John Boland B Apr. 18, 1908 D Feb. 5, 1993

Outfielder Ed Boland appeared in 38 games with the Phillies in 1934 & 1935. He wouldn't be seen in the major leagues again until 1944 when he appeared in 19 games for the Senators, batting .271 (16 for 59) with 4 doubles.

Ed Boland career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=bolaned01)

Gerad Joseph (Gerry) Janeski B Apr. 18, 1946 Still living

The three year career of Jerry Janeski found him in the uniforms of the Chicago White Sox, Washington Senators and Texas Rangers from 1970-1972. In 23 games for the 1971 Senators he posted a 1-5 record with a 4.96 ERA.

Gerry Janeski career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=janesje01)

George Edward (Duffy) Lewis B Apr. 18, 1888 D Jun. 17, 1979

During the 11 year career of Duffy Lewis he patrolled the outfield for the Boston Red Sox from 1910-1917, not appearing in the major leagues in 1918 (possibly for military service during World War 1?), then playing for the New York Yankees in 1919 & 1920 and ending his baseball career with the 1921 Senators, appearing in 27 games. He hit .307 for the Red Sox in 1911 and .302 in 1917.

Duffy Lewis career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=lewisdu01)

Vincent Ventura B Apr. 18, 1917 D Sep. 11, 2001

Another "One Season Wonder", Vince Ventura appeared in 18 games for the 1945 Senators in left field, going 12 for 58 at bat.

Vince Ventura career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=ventuvi01)

[Aa3rt]

1961 The expansion Senators begin their first road trip, having gone 1-3 at home vs. the White Sox & Indians. The Senators get off to a good start, defeating the White Sox 7-2 in Comiskey Park in front of 16,637 fans.

Washington starter Ed Hobaugh gives up 2 runs in 2.2 innings with Marty Kutyna pitching the rest of the game and getting the win. Chicago uses 4 pitchers, starter Billy Pierce being charged with the loss.

Senators Birthdays

Hector Anibal (Garcia) Maestri B Apr. 19, 1935 Still living

Another member of the frequently mentioned Senators "Cuban Connection" Hector Maestri has the unique distinction of only ever appearing in two games-one with each version of the Senators!

His first appearance in the majors was in September of 1960 when he pitched 2 innings for the original Senators franchise, giving up 1 hit but no runs.

Hector wouldn't return to the majors until September of 1961, this time with the expansion Senators, pitching 6 innings, giving up 6 hits, 1 run and being charged with the loss. After that appearance he would disappear off the major league radar screen.

Hector Maestri career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=maesthe01)

Ernest Gordon (Babe) Phelps B Apr. 19, 1908 D Dec. 10, 1992

Catcher Babe Phelps would first appear in a major league uniform with the 1931 Senators where he would play in 3 games. In 1933 he returned for another 3 games with the Chicago Cubs. He would play for the Cubs in 1934 as well. From 1935-1941 he was on the roster of the Brooklyn Dodgers, having some very good years at the plate in 1935-1937. He finished his baseball career with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1942.

Babe Phelps career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=phelpba01)

[Aa3rt]

1944 Elmer John Gedeon, an outfielder who played in 5 games with the 1939 Senators, is killed when his Army Air Corps plane is shot down over St. Pol, France. He was the first major leaguer to be killed in WWII and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Elmer Gedeon career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=gedeoel01)

1961 The expansion Senators lose their first road game in Chicago by a score of 6-1.

Former Senators pitcher Early (Gus) Wynn gets the 286th victory of his career, Hal Woodeshick takes the loss for the Senators.

Chicago players hit 4 home runs, 2 by Roy Sievers (see April 10th), and one each from Jim Landis and Al Smith.

Early Wynn career record. (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=wynnea01)

Senators Birthday

Charles Edwin Smith B Apr. 20, 1880 D Jan. 3, 1929

Pitcher Charlie Smith began his career with the 1902 Cleveland franchise when they were known as the "Blues". Only appearing in 3 games (where he went 2-1) he would return to the majors in 1906 with the Senators where he would stay through most of the 1909 season. He would be dealt to the Boston Red Sox near the end of the 1909 campaign and eventually finish his baseball career with the Chicago Cubs in 1914.

Smith had some rough years with the Senators, going 31-61 during his time in Washington during those early American League years when the the early Senators teams set a precedent for losing.

Charlie Smith career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=smithch02)

[Aa3rt]

Today we get to "highlight" two of my favorite all time Senators...

1934 Morris (Moe) Berg extends his errorless streak to 117 games, setting a new American League record for catchers.

Quite possibly one of the most unique individuals to ever put on a baseball uniform, Moe Berg got his start in the major leagues in 1923 with the Brooklyn Robins, playing in 49 games as an infielder. Moe wouldn't return to the major leagues until 1926 with the Chicago White Sox. During the 1927 season, Moe first became a catcher when other Chicago catchers were injured. He would remain a catcher for the remainder of his career, excluding 1 game at 1st base while playing for the Red Sox in his last season as an active player.

Moe would play for Brooklyn, the Chicago White Sox, Cleveland Indians (twice), Washington Senators and finish his career in Boston. Moe spent 1932, 1933 and a portion of the 1934 seasons in Washington before finishing the season with the Indians.

What made Moe so unique was his classical education, his law degree and his ability to speak a number of languages (anywhere from 7 to 14 depending on your reference).

After his baseball playing days were done, Moe joined the OSS (Office of Strategic Services, precursor to today's CIA) and spent a part of World War II behind enemy lines in Nazi occupied Europe, a dangerous task for anyone, but even moreso for Moe, who was Jewish.

Moe, who died in May of 1972, has had at least 3 books written about him-quite an achievement for a lifetime .243 hitter with 6 home runs!

Moe Berg career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=bergmo01)

More on Moe Berg from Wikipedia:

Moe Berg at Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moe_Berg)

From the Jewish Virtual Library:

Moe Berg (1902-1972) (http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/biography/MBerg.html)

1961 "Old vs. New" Major league baseball debuts in Minnesota with the expansion Senators facing the Minnesota Twins, last year's Washington Senators. The new guys win it, 5-3. Joe McClain ups his record to 2-0 with Dave Sisler getting the save. Dale Long homers for Washington, Lenny Green and Don Mincher homer for Minnesota.

Don Mincher made his major league debut in April of 1960 with the Washington Senators. Making the move to Minnesota with the original Senators, Don would also play for the California Angels, Seattle Pilots, Oakland Athletics, expansion Senators, Texas Rangers and the Oakland Athletics (again) in a 13 year career.

Don is the answer to one of my favorite baseball trivia questions: "Who is the only player to have played with both versions of the Washington Senators and the teams they became?"

Don Mincher career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=minchdo01)

Don is still active in baseball as president of the Southern League. Here's Don today:

Don Mincher, Southern League president (http://southern.league.milb.com/about/page.jsp?ymd=20070221&content_id=180465&vkey=about_l111&fext=.jsp&sid=l111)

1972 After going 1-3 on the road, the newly relocated Texas Rangers, formerly the expansion Washington Senators, debut in Texas, winning their first game 7-6 against the visiting California Angels.

Former Senators Dick Bosman, Casey Cox and Paul Lindblad do the duties on the mound with Bosman getting the win, Lindblad the save. Clyde Wright gets tagged with the loss. Former Senators Frank Howard & Dave Nelson homer for Texas.

The Senators drew 655,156 fans during their last season in Washington. The move to Texas didn't bring the instant riches that owner Bob Short predicted. The Rangers would only draw 662,974 patrons, an increase of 7,818 fans.

Senators Birthday William Kiernan (Bill) Haywood B 4/21/1937 Still living

A "one season wonder" with the 1968 Senators, Bill was a 31 year old rookie, appearing in 14 games, finishing with a 0-0 record and 4.70 ERA.

Bill Haywood career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=haywobi01)

[Aa3rt]

Not much to report in Senators "news" on this date, however there are a quartet of Senators birthdays to celebrate. In alphabetical order...

Steve Jones B April 22, 1941 Still living

Pitching just 3 years in the major leagues, Steve started his career with the Chicago White Sox in 1967 and came to the Senators, along with Ron Hansen and Dennis Higgins in a trade for Tim Cullen, Buster Harum and Bob Priddy. In 1969 he would play for the Kansas City Royals.

Steve Jones career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=jonesst01)

John Orsino B April 22, 1938 Still living

John Orsino played for 7 years in the majors with the San Francisco Giants, Baltimore Orioles and finished his career with the Washington Senators in 1966 & 1967. John was a catcher who could also fill in at 1st base.

John Orsino career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=orsinjo01)

Bob Schmidt B April 22, 1933 Still living

A career catcher, Bob also spent 7 years in the majors with the Giants, Reds, Senators and Yankees.

Bob Schmidt career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=schmibo02)

Mickey Vernon B April 22, 1918 Still living

To the "Washington faithful" Mickey Vernon needs no introduction. A career 1st baseman, Mickey played the majority of his 20 year career with the original Senators. Mickey was a 7 time All Star, Batting Champ in 1946 & 1953 and led the league in doubles in 1946, 1953 & 1954.

Mickey started his career with the Senators in 1939 and played in Washington until 1943 when his career was interrupted due to military service during WWII. Returning to the Senators in 1946 until 1948, he spent a brief period in Cleveland (1949 & part of 1950) before coming back to DC where he was with the Senators through 1955. He finished his career with the Milwaukee Braves and the Pittsburgh Pirates, ending his playing days in 1960.

Mickey Vernon career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=vernomi01)

When the American League expanded in 1961 to 10 teams, Mickey was a sentimental favorite to manage the expansion Senators franchise. Unfortunately the talent Mickey displayed as a player couldn't be transferred to some of the teams he managed-he was saddled with one of the most woeful expansion franchises ever assembled. After the Senators finished in last place in 1961* & 1962, losing 100 & 101 games respectively, Mickey was fired 40 games into the 1963 season, with the Senators again in last place and a record of 14-26. Ned Yost served as interim manager, going 0-1 and was replaced by Gil Hodges. Under Gil's guidance the Senators went 42-79 over the rest of the 1963 season for a final record of 56-106, once again finishing in last place. :ughh

I've long maintained that had it not been for the 1962 Mets going 40-120 in their inaugural season in the media capital of the world, the 1963 Senators would be better remembered as one of the most inept expansion teams to ever (dis)grace a major league baseball diamond.

Expansion Senators managerial records (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/mgrtmtr2.shtml)

*Tied for 9th place with the Kansas City Athletics.

[Steve Jeltz]

Mickey Vernon is from my neck of the woods, born and raised in Chester, PA. Even though I never saw Mickey play, I have heard from others that witnessed Mickey play state that he was a quite a ballplayer and they believe that Mickey belongs in Cooperstown. The sports editor for the Delaware County Daily Times has lobbied in the past for the HOF Veterans Commitee to elect Mickey to the Hall of Fame. I remember watching a Phillies-Nationals game from 2005 and the Phillies "honored" Vernon at Citizens Bank Park. Phils broadcaster Harry Kalas mentioned that Mickey was his favorite player when he was growing up.

[Aa3rt]

1919 Walter Johnson records his 5th Opening Day shutout, defeating the Philadelphia Athletics 1-0 in 13 innings.

1969 30 years to the day after he hit his 1st major league home run, Ted Williams returns to Fenway Park as the manager of the Washington Senators. The Senators win 9-3, with Joe Coleman getting the win and Ken McMullen and Mike Epstein homering for the visitors.

Senators Birthdays

I knew when I began this thread it would be no easy task. Today we have to dig really deep to find some Senators players born on this date. Once again, in alphabetical order...

Beveric Benton "Belve" Bean B April 23, 1905 D June 1, 1988

Hailing from the Lone Start State, "Belve" or "Bill" Bean spent 5 years (1930, 1931, 1933-1935) as a pitcher in the majors, spending most most of his time with the Cleveland Indians. He ended his pitching days with the Senators, where he appeared in 10 games, finishing with a 2-0 record and an ERA of 7.26.

"Belve" Bean career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=beanbe01)

Bob Ganley B April 23,1875 D Oct. 9, 1945

An outfielder whose career began with the 1905 Pittsburgh Pirates, Ganley spent 1907, 1908 and the early part of 1909 with the Senators before finishing his playing days with the 1909 Philadelphia Athletics.

Bob Ganley career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=ganlebo01)

Samuel Mack "Sammy" Meeks B April 23, 1923 D April 23, 2007

A utility infielder who spent most of his time at short, but could also fill in at second and third, Sammy appeared in 24 games with the 1948 Senators. In 33 AB he only managed 4 hits (one double) for a batting average of .121. Sammy spent the next 3 seasons on the roster of the Cincinnati Reds.

Sammy Meeks career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=meekssa01)

[Aa3rt]

Digging deep (again) for some Senators news on this date...

1923 President Warren G. Harding witnesses the first shutout thrown at Yankee Stadium. The victims were the Washington Senators, who lose 4-0 to the Yankees. The Senators would end the season in 4th place with a 75-78 record.

Senators Birthday

Harry Harper B April 24, 1895 D April 23, 1963

Starting his 10 year major league career with the Senators in 1913, Harper would see his best season in 1916 when he finished the season with a 14-10 record. After leaving the Senators, Harper would spend single seasons with the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees and finish in Brooklyn with the Robins in 1923.

Harry Harper career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=harpeha01)

[Aa3rt]

Senators Birthdays

Red Bird B Apr. 25, 1890 D Mar. 23, 1972

With a name like Red Bird, you'd have thought this guy would have been a natural with the St. Louis Cardinals. ;)

However, that wasn't to be the case. The mysterious Mr. Bird appeared in one game for the Senators in 1921. His official line lists him as having pitched 5 innings, giving up 3 runs (all earned) with 1 walk, 2 strike outs and 1 hit batter and no decision. That's where the story ends on Mr. Bird.

Red Bird career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=birdre01)

Bobby Estalella B Apr. 25, 1911 D Jan. 6, 1991

Almost 5 years ago now, when I first joined BBF, one of my first posts here in the Senators forum was a query on how many players had the "distinction" (or should I say "suffered the fate"?) of having played for the Philadelphia Athletics, St. Louis Browns and the Washington Senators.

After some research I would learn that, to the best of my knowledge, 14 players have worn the uniforms of the A's, Browns and Senators during the span of their careers.

One of the players who holds that dubious distinction is outfielder* Bobby Estalella. First appearing in the major leagues in 1935, Bobby spent the 1935, '36 & 39 seasons with the Senators, reappearing again in 1941 with the St. Louis Browns. 1942 found him back in Washington and he finished his career further up the eastern seaboard in Philadelphia from 1943-1945. He jumped to the Mexican League in 1946 but appeared one last time with the A's in 1949.

*And sometime 1st & 3rd baseman.

Bobby Estalella career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=estalbo01)

Senators death

Carlos Paula B Nov. 28, 1917 D Apr. 25, 1983

When I first decided to try and document a daily Senators highlight for a calendar year, I thought I would try to cover births and not deaths, unless they were particularly notable. While from a statistics perspective, the 3 year (1954-1956) career of Havana, Cuba born Carlos Paula is not particularly notable, Paula is best remembered as the first black player with the Washington Senators.

Carlos first appeared in a Senators uniform on Sep. 6, 1954, more than 7 years after Jackie Robinson debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers.

In 1955, Carlos played in 86 games as an outfielder, hitting 7 triples, 6 home runs but committing 10 errors in the field. His brief major league career ended on Jun. 23rd, 1956.

While not a great hitter or fielder, let us remember Carlos Paula as the man who broke the color line with one of baseball's last segregated franchises.

Carlos Paula career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=paulaca01)

[Aa3rt]

1901 The American League starts play in Philadelphia, with the Senators besting the Philadelphia Athletics by the score of 5-1.

1931 The Senators defeat the New York Yankees by a score of 9-7. A bizarre play seals the win for the Senators and possibly costs Lou Gherig the 1931 home run crown. With Yankee Lyn Lary on base, Gehrig homers, a smash that clears the fence but bounces back into the hands of center fielder Harry Rice. Thinking the ball was caught for the third out, Lary heads for the dugout. Gehrig, running with his head down, is called out for passing the runner. Gehrig ends the season tied with Babe Ruth-both have hit 46 home runs. Gehrig finished the season with 184 RBI.

Senators Birthdays

Robert Sylvester (Buzz) Murphy B Apr. 26, 1895 D May 11, 1938

Outfielder Buzz Murphy played in 79 games with the Senators in 1919, collecting 66 hits in 252 at bats, good for a .262 batting average. In 1918, he played for the Boston Braves.

"Buzz" Murphy career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=murphbu01)

Sam Dente B Apr. 26, 1922 D Apr. 21, 2002

Sam Dente's baseball career started with the Boston Red Sox in 1947. He spent the 1949-1951 seasons with the Senators, playing 2nd & 3rd base and shortstop. Other stops during his playing days found him making stops with the St. Louis Browns, Chicago White Sox and ending his career with the Cleveland Indians in 1955.

Sam Dente career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=dentesa01)

[Aa3rt]

1947 It's Babe Ruth Day at Yankee Stadium. 58,339 fans in attendance hear the Babe give his farewell address. Ruth, who was suffering from throat cancer would succumb to the disease the next year. The Senators spoil the the tribute winning 1-0 with the Senators Sid Hudson getting the victory over Spurgeon (Spud) Chandler.

1970 The Senators trade 3rd baseman Ken McMullen to the California Angels for infielder Aurelio Rodriguez and outfielder Rick Reichardt. Reichardt had received a $200,000 bonus in 1964 to sign with the Angels. At the time he was hitting .167 in 9 games for California. Reichardt would appear in 107 games with the Senators, batting .267 with 70 hits, 15 home runs and 46 RBI. He would be traded to the Chicago White Sox prior to the 1971 season for pitcher Gerry Janeski.

1971 Curt Flood leaves the Senators after 15 games, he was batting just .200 at the time. In a 22 word telegram to owner Bob Short he writes: "I tried. A year and a half is too much. Very serious problems mounting every day. Thanks for your confidence and understanding". Rumors of financial problems surrounded Flood, in part stemming from his lawsuit against baseball's reserve clause.

Senators Birthdays

George Archie B Apr. 27, 1914 D Sep. 20, 2001

George Albert Archie spent 3 separate, and brief, stints in the major leagues. In 1938, he played in 3 games with the Detroit Tigers. He returned in 1941 to play 105 games with Washington and an additional 9 with the St. Louis Browns. Then, after another 4 year hiatus, (I'm assuming his career was interrupted by WWII.) he returned in 1946 to play in 4 last games with the St. Louis Browns.

Primarily a 1st/3rd baseman, Archie was traded by Washington to the St. Louis Browns for one of April 25th's birthday boys, Bobby Estalella.

George Archie career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=archige01)

Orth Collins B Apr. 27, 1890 D Dec. 13, 1949

Orth Stein (Buck) Collins is another "short timer" with a broken period of time in the majors. Playing 5 games with the New York Highlanders (later Yankees) in 1904, Collins would not return to the majors until 1909 when he appeared in 8 games for the Senators. He was an outfielder who was pressed into 1 inning of relief pitching by Washington.

Orth Collins career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=collior01)

"Dutch" Hinrichs B Apr 27, 1889 D Aug. 18, 1972

William Louis (Dutch) Hinrichs was a pitcher who played in 3 games for the 1910 Senators. He is charged with 1 loss and an ERA of 2.57 in 7 innings pitched.

Dutch Hinrichs career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=hinridu01)

"Jug" Thesenga B Apr. 27, 1914 D Dec. 3, 2002

A 30 year old rookie, Arnold Joseph (Jug) Thesenga appeared in 5 games for the Senators in 1944. He started 1 game, pitched 12.3 innings, giving up 18 hits and 9 runs (7 earned) for a 5.11 ERA.

Jug Thesenga career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=theseju01)

"Kite" Thomas B Apr. 27, 1923 D Jan. 7, 1995

Completing April 27th's birthday list is Keith Marshall (Kite) Thomas. Playing 2 years in the majors, Thomas played the majority of his brief career with the Philadelphia Athletics in 1952 & 1953. He was picked up off waivers by Washington in June of '53, and played a grand total of 9 games in a Senators uniform, mainly as an outfielder.

Kite Thomas career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=thomaki01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1911 Walter Johnson picks up his first victory of the season with a 2-1 victory over Philadelphia. The only run yielded by the the "Big Train" is a solo HR to Frank "Home Run" Baker. This will be the first of 25 wins for Johnson as he will finish fifth in the AL MVP voting.

Birthdays

Pedro Ramos, B: April 28,1935, Still Alive

A veteran of 15 major league seasons, the native of Pinar Del Rio, Cuba was an All Star for the Senators in 1959. Used mostly as a starter in his 5 seasons with Washington, Ramos would become an effective reliever in the latter half of his career, particularly with the Yankees. As a late season pickup by the Yankees in 1964, Ramos was an instrumental part of their pennant winning team. Ramos also pitched with Minnesota, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Cincinnati. He ended his career with a 4 game stint with the 1970 Senators, thus becoming one of 6 players to play for both the original and expansion Senators.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/r/ramospe01.shtml

Tom Sturdivant B: April 28, 1930 Still Alive

Drafted from Boston in the 1960 Expansion draft, Sturdivant appeared in 15 games with the Sens in 1961, logging a 2-6 record with a 4.61 ERA. Sturdivant was traded to Pittsburgh on June 28, 1961 for P Tom Cheney.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/s/sturdto01.shtml

Frank McGee, B: April 28, 1899 D: January 30, 1934

McGee appeared in 2 games with the 1925 Senators. He went hitless in 3 AB with 1 strikeout.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/m/mcgeefr01.shtml

I hope I'm not stepping on your toes, Aa3rt.

[Aa3rt]

1971 Playing their last season as the Washington Senators, the Senators, with a 12-8 won-lost record, head to Chicago to face the White Sox.

Despite home runs from Mike Epstein and Bernie Allen, the Senators would lose 5-4. This is the start of a 6 game losing streak from which the Senators would never recover, finishing the season at 63-96, for a .396 winning percentage. Chicago pitcher Tom Bradley ups his record to 3-0 with the win, Darold Knowles is charged with the loss for the Senators.

Senators Birthdays

Mickey McDermott B Apr. 29, 1929 D Aug. 7, 2003

Maurice Joseph (Mickey) McDermott first appeared in the major leagues with the Boston Red Sox in 1948. In a career that spanned 12 years he also played for the Washington Senators, New York Yankees, Kansas City Athletics (2 separate stints), Detroit Tigers and St. Louis Cardinals.

Mickey's years wearing the uniform of the Washington Senators were 1954 & 1955, where he compiled a 17-25 record over 2 seasons. His best year was 1953 when he went 18-10 for the Red Sox. Mickey came to the Senators, along with Tom Umphlett, in a trade for Jackie Jensen.

Mickey McDermott career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=mcdermi03)

Steve Ridzik B Apr. 29, 1929 D Jan. 8, 2008

Another well travelled player, Steve Ridzik first played in 1 game for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1950. He returned to Philadelphia in 1952, playing for the Phillies and going to the Cincinnati Reds during the 1955 season. He spent 1956 & 1957 with the New York Giants and spent a portion of 1958 with the Cleveland Indians. Then he would not play in the majors again until 1963 when he showed up on the roster of the expansion Senators where he would play from 1963 to 1965 compiling a 3 year total of 11-15. He was purchased by the Philles in early 1966 where he would end his career.

Steve Ridzik career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=ridzist01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1969- At Tiger Stadium, Senators starter Joe Coleman heads into the bottom of the 9th inning with a 4-2 lead over Detroit. Coleman retires 3B Tom Matchick on a fly to left for the first out, but gives up a single to C Bill Freehan and a walk to PH Dave Campbell. Manager Ted Williams lifts Coleman for Frank Bertaina, who walks 2B Dick McAuliffe to load the bases. Williams makes another pitching change by summoning closer Dennis Higgins. SS Mikey Stanley deposits a double to center that scores all 3 Tiger runners as the Senators lose a tough one to the defending WS Champs. Despite pitching to one batter, Bertaina suffers the loss.

Joe Coleman was a 1st round choice of Washington in the first MLB draft in June,1965. Coleman was one of the players that the Senators gave up in the disastrous Denny McLain trade after the 1970 season. Coleman became a two time 20 game winner wth Detroit over 6 seasons with the Tigers. Over a 14 year career, he pitched for Washington, Detroit, the Cubs, Oakland, Toronto, San Francisco and Pittsburgh. After retiring in 1979, he became a pitching coach, most notably with San Diego.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/c/colemjo05.shtml

Frank Bertaina was acquired by the Senators in a trade from the Baltimore Orioles along with Mike Epstein for Pete Richert in May, 1967. Bertaina pitched part of 3 years with the Senators going 14-21 in his stint with Washington from 1967 to mid 1969. He was traded back to Baltimore for minor leaguer Pete Campbell in June, 1969. Bertaina ended his career with St. Louis in 1970.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/b/bertafr01.shtml

Dennis Higgins, who gave up the game winning double to Stanley, pitched 2 seasons with the Senators in 1968 & 1969, logging 29 saves while compiling a 14-13 record in 104 relief appearances. He also pitched for the Chicago White Sox, Cleveland and St. Louis in his 7 year career. Higgins is a cousin of current White Sox 3B Joe Crede.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/h/higgide01.shtml

[Aa3rt]

1939 The Senators win 3-2, beating the Yankees in New York. Making the game notable is the fact that Lou Gehrig's 2,130 consecutive game streak comes to an end today. He is hitting .143 with just 4 hits since the beginning of the season.

Senators Birthdays

Tony Brottem B Apr. 30, 1891 D Aug. 5, 1929

Playing for the St. Louis Cardinals in 1916 & 1918, Tony Brottem would reappear in the major leagues in 1921, playing just 4 games as a catcher for the Senators and would finish his playing days with the Pittsburgh Pirates that same year.

Tony Brottem career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=brottto01)

Bob Edmundson B Apr. 30, 1879 D Aug. 14, 1931

Bob Edmundson was another to have a brief career, this one entirely with the Senators. An outfielder who also made 2 pitching appearances, Edmundson played in just 3 games in the 1906 season and would resurface in 1908 to play in 26 games.

Bob Edmundson career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=edmonbo01)

Kenneth Leo (Ken) Retzer B Apr. 30, 1934 Still living

Another catcher, Ken Retzer appeared with the expansion Senators from 1961 to 1964 playing in 237 games over that span. After the 1964 season he was traded to the Minnesota Twins for Joe McCabe.

Ken Retzer career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=retzeke01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1901 The Senators, after bolting to a 4-0 start, suffer their 1st American League defeat. The opponent was none other than the John McGraw led Baltimore Orioles, the forerunners to the Yankees. The Orioles take a 6-4 win in Washington. The Sens would complete their inaugural season with in 6th place with a record of 61-72 under manager Jim Manning. It would be Manning's first and last managerial job.

1925 The defending World Champion Senators improve to 10-3 with a 9-4 victory over Philadelphia. The significance of this game? This game marked the debut of a 17 year old kid by the name of Jimmie Foxx. Foxx hit a pinch single in his debut. Tom Zachary was the Senators winning pitcher.

1927 Rookie Hod Lisenbee shutouts the Red Sox 6-0 in his first major league start at Griffith Stadium. Lisenbee would compile an 18-9, 3.57 ERA for the 1927 Sens. Lisenbee would never approach those numbers again, as injuries and ineffectiveness curtailed his career. In one of the Senators best trades, Lisenbee was shipped to the Red Sox after the 1928 season in multi player deal that netted Washington Buddy Myer again, an important player for the 1933 pennant winning Senators.

Lisenbee's stats: http://www.baseball-reference.com/l/lisenho01.shtml

1944 At Boston, Sens 2B George Myatt goes 6 for 6 in Washington's 11-4 rout of the Red Sox. Myatt began his career in the NL with the NY Giants in 1938 before the Cardinals purchased his contract before the 1941 season. Myatt did not play a game for the Cards in two seasons and was left unprotected in the the 1942 Rule 5 draft, where Washington selected him. His best season as a Senator was in 1945 when he placed 5th in the AL MVP voting.

After Myatt's playing days ended in 1947, he would go on to a coaching and managing career in the minors and majors. Myatt's only major league managerial position occurred when he succeeded Gene Mauch as the Phillies manager during the 1968 season. A rocky relationship with mercurial Phils star Dick Allen and a 19-35 start in 1969, would eventually seal Myatt's fate as the Phils skipper.

George Myatt stats:http://www.baseball-reference.com/m/myattge01.shtml

[Aa3rt]

1941 In the first night game at Griffith Stadium, the Yankees defeat the Senators 6-5.

Senators Birthday

We have to dredge REALLY deep for this one...

David Austin (Del) Howard B May 1, 1889 D Jan. 26, 1956

Dave Howard's first (and presumably only) game with the Washington Senators came on May 8, 1912. He is credited with 1 run scored and no official at bats. Howard would resurface in 1915 with the Brooklyn Tip-Tops of the Federal League, where he appeared in 24 games at second and third base and as an outfielder.

Dave Howard career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=howarda01)

[Aa3rt]

Senators Birthday

Lucas Newton Turk B May 2, 1898 D Jan. 11, 1994

Another obscure player, Lucas Turk appeared in 5 games with the Senators in 1922, appearing in 5 games, finishing with no won/lost record and an ERA of 6.94 in 11.2 innings pitched.

Lucas Turk career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=turklu01)

[Aa3rt]

1952 The Senators and Yankees make a 6 player trade, the Senators receive Jackie Jensen, Frank (Spec) Shea, Archie Wilson and minor league infielder Jerry Snyder. The Senators send Irv Noren and Tom Upton to New York.

1962 The Senators trade Willie Tasby to the Cleveland Indians. In return, Steve Hamilton and Don Rudolph suit up in Senators uniforms.

Senators Birthday

Charles Edward (Chuck) Hinton, Jr. B May 3, 1934 Still living

Fans of the early expansion Senators probably remember Chuck Hinton as one of the few bright spots on an otherwise lackluster roster. Chuck spent 11 years in the majors, starting with the Washington Senators in 1961. He spent 1965-1967 & 1969-1971 on the roster of the Cleveland Indians, with an interruption in 1968 playing for the California Angels.

Probably Chuck's best year came in 1962 when he hit .310 with 17 home runs in 151 games for a Senators team that would lose 101 games.

Chuck Hinton career record. (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=hintoch01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1923 Walter Johnson pitches the 100th shutout of his career with a 3-0 win over the Yankees at Griffith Stadium. The "Big Train" would record 113 shutouts, still a major league record.

Walter Johnson stats: http://www.baseball-reference.com/j/johnswa01.shtml

[Dougman59]

Roy Siever career stats are interesting. He had an excellent rookie season. Then a sophmore slump turning into 3 years of very limited MLB action (injured or in the minor?) Then he makes a comeback with Washington, subsequently putting in 10 years in the majors. I'm trying to think of somebody in the modern era who had similar career path.

[Aa3rt]

Roy Siever career stats are interesting. He had an excellent rookie season. Then a sophmore slump turning into 3 years of very limited MLB action (injured or in the minor?)

Dougman59-Sievers rookie season was good enough that he won "Rookie of the Year" honors. According to a writeup in Wikipedia, he was bothered by arm and shoulder injuries during the 1951-1953 seasons.

Roy Sievers at Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roy_Sievers)

[Aa3rt]

Senators Birthdays

A quintet of birthdays to remark this May 4th:

Larry Francis Drake B May 4, 1921 D Jul. 14, 1985

An outfielder with a very short career, Larry Drake first appeared in 1 game for the Philadelphia Athletics in 1945. He resurfaced in the majors with the Senators in 1948 where he appeared in 4 games, with 2 hits in 7 AB.

Larry Drake career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=drakela01)

Howard Dean (Howie) Koplitz B May 4, 1938 Still living

A pitcher who started his career with the Detroit Tigers in 1961, Koplitz played 2 years with the Tigers, then returned to the major leagues in 1964 with the Senators where he spent parts of 3 seasons, through 1966.

His career record is 9 wins, 7 losses. He went 4-7 with the 1965 Senators.

Howie Koplitz career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=kopliho01)

John Anthony (Ox) Miller B May 4, 1915 D Aug. 13, 2007

Beginning his career with the 1943 Senators, Miller split time between the Senators and St. Louis Browns in 1943. He returned to the majors in 1945 and spent 1945 & 1946 with the Browns, ending his playing days with the Chicago Cubs in 1947.

Ox Miller career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=milleox01)

Richard Louis (Dick) Nold B May 4, 1943 Still living

Spending part of 1 season with the 1967 Senators, Nold finished with an 0-2 career record, with an ERA of 4.97 in 20.1 innings pitched.

Dick Nold career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=nolddi01)

John Thomas (Jack) Tobin B May 4, 1892 D Dec. 10, 1969

Jack Tobin's career began in 1914 with the St. Louis Terriers of the Federal League. He spent 1916, 1918-1925 with the St. Louis Browns. In 1926 he appeared in 27 games in a Senators uniform before finishing the season with the Boston Red Sox, where he ended his baseball career after the 1927 season. An outfielder, he would finish with a lifetime batting average of .309. His best year would be 1919 when he hit .327 in 127 games for the Browns.

Jack Tobin career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=tobinja01)

[Steve Jeltz]

I noticed the Topps rookie card that Dick Nold shared with Frankie Coggins. What were the expectations for Coggins after he hit over .300 upon his September call up in 1967? I checked Coggins career stats and noticed that, after his Sept. flash, he fizzled in 1968 hitting .175 in 62 games.

[Steve Jeltz]

1904 After losing their first 13 games of the season, Washington finally picks up its first win by defeating the NY Highlanders 9-4 at Hilltop Park. 3 days later, with the Senators sitting at 1-16, player-manager Mallachi Kiitridge is relieved of his managerial duties in favor of Patsy Donavan, who is embroiled in a contract dispute with the St. Louis Cardinals. Donavan eventually settles the dispute and becomes the Senators manager. Donavan would not fare better than his predecessor, going 37-97 over the rest of the year. The Senators finish 1904 at 38-113, a winning pct. of .252, the worse in franchise history.

[Aa3rt]

Two Senators birthdays to note today...

Harley Grossman B May 5, 1930 D Sep. 5, 2003

Harley Grossman's "career" was probably something that would best be left unremarked. 1 game, 0.1 innings pitched giving up 2 runs for a career ERA of 54.04. :ughh But for that 1 day, at least, he did appear in a major league uniform, on the roster of a major league team and has a place in the baseball record books, something that many of us can only dream about.

Harley Grossman career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=grossha01)

Joe McClain B May 5, 1933 Still living

Joe McClain has the distinction of being the first pitcher to record a win for the expansion Senators franchise on April 14, 1961 over the Cleveland Indians. He looked like a promising pitcher for the expansion Senators in the early 1961 season, going 7-7 with a 3.19 ERA. Unfortunately the wheels fell off after the All-Star break, his record 1-11 with a 4.76 ERA in the second half of the season. His totals for the year were 8-18 with an ERA of 3.86. Returning with the Senators in 1962, he went 0-4 with a 9.38 ERA before being sent to Syracuse in June. He would never return to the majors.

Joe McClain career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=mcclajo01)

And a happy birthday to my father who turns 82 today. Born in 1926, a year that would see the St. Louis Cardinals defeat the New York Yankees 4 games to 3 for the World Championship. Frederick (Firpo) Marberry of the Washington Senators would lead the American League in appearances with 64 and saves with 22. After winning the World Series in 1924 and the American League pennant in 1925, the Senators would slip to 4th place with an 81-69 record, behind the pennant winning New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians and Philadelphia Athletics.

[Steve Jeltz]

Hope your father had a great birthday, Aa3rt!

[Steve Jeltz]

1967 Behind 9th inning solo homers by Bob Chance and Paul Casanova, the Senators win their 3rd straight by shutting out the Angels 2-0 in Anaheim. Darold Knowles picks up the victory with 6 solid innings of relief, scattering 2 hits and striking out 6.

[Aa3rt]

Senators Birthdays

Patrick Henry (Pat) Duff B May 6, 1875 D Sep. 11, 1925

Another VERY brief appearance in a Senators uniform, Pat Duff appeared in one game with the Senators in 1906, at the age of 30. What he did in that at bat, we have no idea except that he didn't hit safely, ending his career going 0 for 1 with a batting average of .000. According to the records he did not field, so Pat Duff's proverbial "cup of coffee" in the majors was served on April 16, 1906.

Pat Duff career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=duffpa01)

Myron Winthrop (Mike) McCormick B May 6, 1917 D Apr. 13, 1976

There have been 3 players in the major leagues known as Mike McCormick. (Two of them have spent time in a Senators uniform.) The Mike McCormick of interest to us on May 6th was an outfielder who played in the majors for 10 years, missing 1944 & 1945 during WWII. Starting in 1940 with the Cincinnati Reds, this Mike McCormick would also spend time with the Boston Braves, Brooklyn Dodgers, New York Giants, Chicago White Sox and finish his career in 1951 with the Senators where he would play in 81 games, collecting 70 hits in 243 at bats, good for a respectable .288 average during his one season playing for Washington.

Mike McCormick career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=mccormi02)

[Steve Jeltz]

1917 Boston's Babe Ruth outduels Walter Johnson 1-0 in Washington. The only run is a sacrifice fly by, who else, the Babe himself.

1957 Charlie Dressen is dismissed as the Senators manager after the Sens drop 8 straight to fall to 5-16. Under new manager Cookie Lavagetto, the Senators drop their 9th straight as they fall to the Tigers 5-3 at Briggs Stadium in Detroit. Jim Lemon, Pete Runnels and Faye Thorneberry drive in the Senators 3 runs. Ted Abernathy of the Senators falls to 0-3.

1965 The Senators sweep a doubleheader from the Yankees at RFK Stadium winning by the scores of 4-3 and 7-3. Jim King's 2 run pinch hit HR in the 7th off the Yanks Mel Stottlemyre that breaks a 2-2 tie is the difference in the first game. In the nightcap, the Senators provide more 7th inning magic by scoring 5 runs to erase a 3-2 deficit. Frank Howard's 3 run triple and former Yank Woddie Held's 2 run HR off former Senator Pedro Ramos punctuates the 5 run outburst. Ron Kline saves both ends of the doubleheader with his 6th and 7th saves.

1971 In Minnesota, the Senators score 4 runs in the top of the 9th inning to defeat the Twins 6-5. Trailing 5-2 with 2 outs and nobody on against Bert Blyleven, Washington RF Tom McGraw starts the rally with a triple. Former Twin Bernie Allen follows with an RBI single to center to cut the Twins lead to 2. Catcher Paul Casanova comes through in the clutch with a game tying 2 run homer to chase Blyleven. With the score now tied, SS Toby Harrah greets new Twins pitcher Ray Corbin with a single to left center. After Corbin throws a wild pitch to advance Harrah to second base, PH Denny Billings hits a flyball to right field that is misplayed by Twins RF Tony Oliva that allows Harrah to score the go ahead run.

[Aa3rt]

Senators Birthdays

Today we have another quartet of Senators birthdays to highlight...

Sydney Harry (Syd) Cohen B May 7, 1906 D Apr. 9, 1988

Syd Cohen pitched 3 years for the Washington Senators (1934, 1936, 1937) appearing in a grand total of 55 games over those 3 seasons, with a W-L record of 3-7 and an ERA of 4.54.

Syd Cohen career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=cohensy01)

Case Lyman Patten B May 7, 1874 D May 31, 1935

A truly "original" Washington Senator, Case Patten's career began in 1901, the inaugural year of the American League. Patten would pitch for the Senators from 1901-1908 and appear in 1 game with the Boston Red Sox in 1908.

He ended his first season with a record of 18-10 and an ERA of 3.93. With the 1906 Senators his record was 19-16 with an ERA of 2.17. Overall, he was 105-127 with Washington, with another loss for the Red Sox thrown in for good measure.

Case Patten career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=patteca01)

Henri Joseph Rondeau B May 7, 1887 D May 28, 1943

Henri Rondeau first appeared in the major leagues in 1913 as a 1st baseman/catcher for the Detroit Tigers in 1913. He returned to the majors in 1915, playing 2 seasons for the Senators in the outfield. His most active season, 1916, was also his last. He appeared in 50 games, going 36 for 162 (.222 BA) with 1 home run.

Henri Rondeau career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=rondehe01)

Jonathan Thompson Walton (Tom) Zachary B May 7, 1896 D Jan. 24, 1969

Tom Zachary's career spanned 19 years and he was on the roster of 7 different major league teams. Beginning with the Philadelphia Athletics in 1918, he spent the majority of his career with the Washington Senators (1919-1925, 1927-1928) but also saw service with the St. Louis Browns, New York Yankees, Boston Braves, Brooklyn Dodgers and ended his career in 1936 with the Philadelphia Phillies. Zachary is one of those 14 players who holds the "distinction" of having played for the Philadelphia Athletics, St. Louis Browns and Washington Senators.

He played for the World Champion Washington Senators in 1924 and went 2-0 in the World Series. He also pitched to a 1-0 record for the New York Yankees in the 1926 Series.

Tom Zachary career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=zachato01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1912- Walter Johnson's five game win streak is snapped with a 7-6 defeat at the hand of the White Sox in Washington.

1914- May 8 must not have been a good day for the "Big Train" in his career. On this date in 1914, Johnson comes on in relief against the A's and gives up 6 runs in 3 innings in a game that ends in a 9-9 tie. The "Big Train" throws the only beanball of his career at Frank "Home Run" Baker, who is a career .385 hitter against Johnson until this game. After this game, Baker would only hit .207 off Johnson for the rest of his career.

1937 Bobo Newsome hits the only homer of his career off Detroit's Schoolboy Rowe. The Senators win 8-3 at Detroit.

1948 After suffering 3 straight shutouts, the Senators finally score but still lose to Cleveland 6-1 in Washington. The highlight of this game is Cleveland's Larry Doby's 408 foot, 3 run, inside the park HR which hits the loudspeakers in CF. The ball is declared by the umpire as in play as it bounces back onto the field.

1971 The Senators trade 1B Mike Epstein and P Darold Knowles to Oakland for 1B Don Mincher, P Paul Linblad, C Frank Fernandez and cash. For Mincher, he would become one of 6 players to have played for both the original and expansion Senators.

Senators Birthday

No one who ever played for the Washington Senators was born on May 8th.

[Steve Jeltz]

1904 After dropping a 6-3 decision in Philadelphia that drops the Senators to 1-16, Malachi Kittridge is dismissed as the Sens interim manager. Kittridge returns to his catcher position. Patsy Donavan, the Sens original choice to be the manager, finally settles his contract dispute with the Cardinals and is handed the managerial reigns by Senators vice president and business manager William Dwyer. Donavan, in his only major league stint as a manager, finishes the year as the Sens go 38-113. Both Donavan and Dwyer will be gone by the next season.

1958 After rainouts of six straight home games, the Yankees defeat the Senators 9-5 at Yankee Stadium. The highlight of the game is Mickey Mantle's solo, inside the park homer that breaks a 2-2 tie in the 3rd inning. Yogi Berra drives in 3 RBI for the New Yorkers. For the Senators, 1B Norm Zauchin connects for his 3rd homer of the year and goes 2 for 3 with 2 RBI. Bob Turley of the Yanks gets the complete game win, while Pedro Ramos of the Sens drops to 2-1 with the loss.

1960 The young Senators throttle the Kansas City A's 8-1 at Griffith Stadium. Camillo Pascual strikes out 11 in the complete game 3 hitter for the Sens. RF Bob Allison and C Earl Battey each drive in 2 RBI. CF Dan Dobbek, LF Jim Lemon and 3B Reno Bertoia join the hit parade with 2 hits apiece and a RBI. Allison and Lemon connect for their 2nd and 6th homers of the year, respectively.

Senators Birthday

Lewis L. (Lew) Drill B May 9, 1877 D July 4, 1969

Lew Drill appeared in the major leagues from 1902-1905 with the Washington Senators, Baltimore Orioles (playing their last season in Baltimore before moving to New York to become the Highlanders, later Yankees) and ended his career with the Detroit Tigers.

Starting with the Senators in 1902, Drill played 38 games for Washington. In July he was "loaned" to the Baltimore Orioles where he appeared in 2 games and then was returned to Washington, where he appeared in an additional 33 games. He played a full season for the Senators in 1903. In 1904 he would appear in 46 games for Washington before being purchased by Detroit, where he played 51 games in 1904 and 72 games in 1905.

A versatile player, Drill was primarily a catcher but was also tapped to play at 1st, 2nd & 3rd base as well as the outfield.

Lew Drill career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=drillle01)

[Steve Jeltz]

May 10 was an eventful day in the colorful history of the Senators, particularly as it pertains to Walter Johnson and a variety of streaks and records by different players.

1909 Walter Johnson suffers his second straight 1-0 shutout loss, this one to the White Sox at South Side Park. It is the third consecutive 1-0 loss for the Senators, tying the record set by the St. Louis Browns 2 weeks before. For Johnson, he would suffer 10 shutout losses for the season, establishing a 20th century ML record. Despite a 2.22 ERA, Johnson finishes the season at 13-25, the most losses of his legendary career.

1910 The Washington Post, with managing editor Scott Bone as a substantial stockholder in the Senators ownership, opines that the Senators should "trade this phenom (Johnson) for a couple of good fielders." The reason for the Post's suggestion? The Big Train has a tough outing against Chicago, giving up 7 runs in 5 innings as the Sox rout the Sens 10-3 in Washington. Johnson recovers and begins to establish himself as a top tier pitcher going 25-17 with a 1.36 ERA.

1913 Johnson tosses a 2 hitter as the Senators squeak by the White Sox 1-0 at Comiskey Park. Johnson runs his consecutive scoreless innings streak to 52.2. The streak would end at 55.2 innings, a ML record that would stand until 1968 when Don Drysdale of the Dodgers breaks it. Nonetheless, the scoreless innings streak is still the AL record. Johnson has his most dominant season and easily wins the AL MVP by winning 36, tossing 11 shutouts and posting a minuscule 1.14 ERA.

1936 Lefty Grove of the Red Sox heads into his start at Washington having only given up 1 earned run in his previous 48 innings pitched. The Sens score 4 on Grove as Bobo Newsom, in his first tour of duty with the Senators, gets the 4-0 shutout win.

1938 The Senators reel off their 7th consecutive victory by defeating the Browns in a slugfest at Griffith 8-6. With the win, the Sens move into 1st place with a 15-7 record. This would be the high point of the 1938 season as the Senators would gradually drift out of contention and finish in 5th place at 75-76.

1959 In the Bronx, the Yanks sweep a doubleheader from the Senators winning 6-3 and 3-2 in 10 innings. Ken Aspromonte of Washington drives in all 3 Sens runs with a solo HR and a 2 run single in the first game as Chuck Stobbs takes the loss. Norm Siebern of the Yankees drives in the winning run in the 10th inning of the second game with a one out double off Camilio Pascual. Yogi Berra sets a ML record for catchers in the nightcap by handling his 148th consecutive error less game.

Senators Birthday

Newton Michael (Mickey) Grasso B May 10, 1920 D Oct. 15, 1975

Catcher Mickey Grasso first played in the major leagues with the New York Giants in 1946, appearing in 7 games. He returned to the majors in 1950, playing in Washington from 1950 through 1953. He appeared in just 4 games with the Cleveland Indians in 1954 and ended his career where it began, with the New York Giants in 1955.

His best year as a hitter came in 1950 when he had 56 hits in 195 AB, good for a .287 BA. He appeared in 115 games in 1952 but his BA dropped to .216 that season.

Mickey Grasso career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=grassmi01)

[TallIndian]

I remember Don Drysdale 'breaking' the Big Train's streak. However, it was with the aid of the umpires. Drysdale hit a batter with bases loaded and the streak should have ended there.

However, the home plate umpire ruled that the batter did not make an attempt to get out of the way of the pitch -- and simply ruled the pitch a ball.

Hershhiser (IIRC) finally did break the record.

[Steve Jeltz]

Hershhiser (IIRC) finally did break the record.

That's correct TallIndian. Orel Hershiser is now the record holder having broke Drysdale record in 1988.

[Steve Jeltz]

1904 New Senators manager Patsy Donavan picks up his first win in his managerial debut as the Senators beat the Browns 7-3 in Washington. The victory "improves" the Nats record to 2-16.

1911 At Chicago, the Senators give up a season high 20 runs as the Senators get pounded 20-6 by the Sox.

1919 Jack Quinn of the Yankees and Walter Johnson engage in a 12 inning scoreless pitching duo. The game ends after 12 innings tied 0-0 at the Polo Grounds. An interesting side note: Johnson fans George Halas twice as the Papa Bear goes 0 for 5.

1960 In another scoreless extra inning pitching duo, Pedro Ramos and the Tigers Frank Lary match zeros for 10 innings. Al Kaline breaks the 0-0 tie with a game winning homer in the bottom of the 11th to win it for the home team 1-0. Ramos is the hard luck loser giving up 5 hits and 1 run in 10.2 innings.

1962 Leading 1-0 heading into the top of the 6th at Baltimore, the Senators explode for 11 runs in stomping the Orioles 12-1. Gene Woodling's grand slam and Chuck Cottier's 3 run double highlight the inning. Washington's Dave Stenhouse improves to 2-0 with the complete game win.

1967 Camilo Pasqual, in his first season back in Washington, strikes out a season high 10, but the Sens fall to the Indians 2-1 at RFK.

1969 Despite 2 home runs from Frank Howard, the Senators conclude their first ever series with the Seattle Pilots by getting swept at Sicks Stadium. Erstwhile Senator Don Mincher hits a game winning home run in the bottom of the 9th as the Pilots take the 6-5 win. The only team that the Pilots had a winning record against in their only season is the Senators.

Senators Birthdays

John Dewey Adkins B May 11, 1918 D Dec. 26, 1998

Dewey Adkins first appeared in a Senators uniform in 1942. A pitcher, he appeared in 1 game, pitching 6.1 innings, giving up 7 runs for an ERA of 9.95. In 1943 he appeared in another 7 games, with a cumulative total of 10.1 IP. His ERA that second season was a much-improved 2.61. Then he would disappear from the major league scene until 1949 when he returned for 1 season with the Chicago Cubs, appearing in 30 games and earning a 2-4 W/L record.

Dewey Adkins career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=adkinde01)

Francisco Jose (Lopez) Campos B May 11, 1924 D Jan. 28, 2006

"Frank" Campos was one of many Cuban players who appeared briefly with the Senators during the 1940's and 1950's. Campos was with the Senators from 1951-1953, appearing in a grand total of 71 games stretched out over 3 seasons. In 1951 he only played in 8 games, but managed to hit 11 for 29, good for a .423 BA. His most active season was 1952 when he appeared in 53 games.

Frank Campos career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=campofr01)

[TallIndian]

I still rememer that series against the Pilots in 1969. There was one game in the series where the Nats had a 7 or 8 run lead and then the bullpen blew it.



Funny how these things linger in your mind.

[Aa3rt]

I still rememer that series against the Pilots in 1969. There was one game in the series where the Nats had a 7 or 8 run lead and then the bullpen blew it.

TallIndian-Could this (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/box-scores/boxscore.php?boxid=196905100SE1) be the game you are referring to?

On Saturday, May 10, 1969 the Senators were leading the Pilots 11-3 before the Pilots broke the game open with an 8 run bottom of the sixth, :( finally winning 16-13.

[TallIndian]

Yes that's the one! The game started around 11PM DC time. I had to listen to the transitor with the volume turned down.

[Steve Jeltz]

1926 Walter Johnson picks up his 400th career victory as the St. Louis Browns fall to the Sens 7-4 at Griffith Stadium.

1956 An 8 run bottom of the second propels the Senators to a 12-9 win over Boston. Washington's Jerry Snyder falls a single short of the cycle and drives in 5 of his 14 RBI's for the year. Roy Sievers and Ernie Oravetz chip in 2 runs apiece. Every Sens position player picks up at least 1 hit and scores a run, except for Pete Runnels, who wears an 0 for 5 collar.

1964 Baltimore's Dave McNally throws a 2 hit complete game as the Orioles whitewash the Sens 5-0 at RFK. Chuck Hinton and Fred Valentine collect the only 2 Senators hits.

1968 At RFK, Frank Howard hits 2 home runs as the Sens defeat the eventual World Champion Tigers 6-3. Joe Coleman gets the complete game win, upping his mark to 2-2.

Senators Birthdays

James Harry Dean B May 12, 1915 D Jun. 1, 1960

Another "short timer" with the Senators, Harry Dean pitched in 2 games for the Senators in 1941. His short record covers 2 IP, 3 runs (1 earned) for an ERA of 4.5.

Harry Dean career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=deanha01)

Edward Hoyte (Ed) Lyons B May 12, 1923 Still living

Ed Lyons appeared in 7 games for the 1947 Senators, hitting 4 for 26 for a .154 BA

Ed Lyons career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=lyonsed01)

George Earl McNeely B May 12, 1898 D Jul. 16, 1971

Earl McNeely spent 8 years in the major leagues, from 1924-1931, spending his first 4 years in Washington and ending his career with the St. Louis Browns. Perhaps his best season with the Senators was 1926 when he appeared in 124 games, with 134 hits in 442 AB, good for a .303 BA. He was a prt of the World Championship team in 1924 and the pennant winner of 1925.

Earl McNeely career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=mcneeea01)

Thomas Mullen Umphlett B May 12, 1930 Still living

An outfielder from 1953-1955, Umphlett's best season was his rookie year when hit hit .283 with 3 home runs with the Red Sox. He spent the 1954 & 1955 seasons in Washington where his hitting didn't match the promise he showed in his rookie season.

Tom Umphlett career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=umphlto01)

[TallIndian]

That was the start of Frank Howard's home run streak -- 10 home runs in 20 at bats. Don Mattingly may have broken that record.

It was a home game but was televised. Howard and Ken McMullen hit back-to-back homers (off Mickey Lolich, IIRC).

Tigers went on to win the World Series and the Nats finished a gazillion games behind the Tigers.

But you took what you could get back then!:)

[Steve Jeltz]

Actually, Howard and Ken McMullen did not go deep back to back. Their homers off Lolich were sandwiched around a Cap Petersen strikeout. ;)

I was checking out Howard's games played from that streak. Howard hit 10 homers with 17 RBI in 6 games from May 12-18. Of those 10 home runs, 5 put the Sens ahead, so it wasn't as though the Sens were trailing or leading big. The Nats went 3-3 in those 6 games, but easily could have been 6-0 during that stretch if the pitching would have held late inning leads.

[Steve Jeltz]

1903 A 3-0 win at St. Louis snaps a 7 game losing streak for the Sens. The 1903 Nats will finish in last place with a 43-94 record under manager Tom Loftus.

1926 "Bullet" Joe Bush records his only victory as a Senator as the defending AL champs knock off the Browns 6-2 in Washington. The victory keeps the Nats in a 1st place tie with the Yanks, but this would be the Sens final day in first. Bush, acquired with OF Jack Tobin from the Browns for pitchers Tom Zachary and Win Ballou, would go 1-8 with a 6.69 ERA before being sold to Pittsburgh in July.

1932 Alvin "General" Crowder shuts out Detroit 7-0 at Briggs Stadium as the Senators improve to 18-5 on the season. For Crowder, this victory is one of a career high 26 victories that he will record for the season.

1948 The Senators trade OF Leon Culberson and $20,000 to the Yankees for OF Bud Stewart. Stewart would play 3 seasons with the Sens, with the 1948 season ranking as the best year of his career, when he hit .279 with 7 HR and 69 RBI. Stewart would be dealt to the White Sox in December, 1950 for OF Mike McCormick.

1953 C Ed Fitz Gerald is purchased by Washington from Pittsburgh. Mostly a backup, Fitz Gerald played parts of 7 seasons with Washington before being dealt to Cleveland in 1959, where he would finish his career.

1961 The expansion Sens record their first ever shutout. Tom Sturdivant goes the distance as he silences the Red Sox bats 4-0 at Griffith Stadium. Sturdivant yields only 2 base runners in the complete game win.

Senators Birthdays

A trio of Senators birthdays to note today...

Carden Edison Gillenwater B May 13, 1918 D May 10, 2000

Carden Gillenwater began his major league career with the 1940 St. Louis Cardinals, appearing in 7 games as an outfielder. He returned to the majors for another short stint with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1943, then played for the Boston Braves in 1945 and 1946. His most active season was 1945 when he appeared in 144 games, batting .288 with 7 home runs. His career ended with the Washington Senators in 1948 when he appeared in 77 games, hitting .244 with 3 home runs.

Carden Gillenwater career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=gilleca01)

Frank Vernon Hemphill B May 13, 1878 D Nov. 16, 1950

Frank Hemphill's career was rather brief-13 games with the Chicago White Sox in 1906 and then a return to the majors in 1909 when he appeared in 1 game for the Senators, going 0-3 at the plate.

Frank Hemphill career record (http://baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=hemphfr01)

John Junior (Johnny) Roseboro B May 13, 1933 D Aug. 16, 2002

Johnny Roseboro's career began with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1957 when he appeared in 35 games. He went west with the Dodgers to Los Angeles in 1958 and was a mainstay of the Dodgers through 1967, appearing in over 100 games each season during that span. He was traded to the Minnesota Twins prior to the 1968 season, playing for the Twins in 1968 & 1969.
His last season in the majors was 1970 when he appeared in 46 games for the Senators after being picked up as a free agent during the off-season. He was released by the Senators on August 19th of that year, after appearing in 46 games, hitting .233 with 1 home run.

Johnny Roseboro career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=rosebjo01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1913 A new major league record is set in St. Louis as Walter Johnson breaks Jack Coombs record of 53 consecutive scoreless innings. The Browns will push a run across in the 4th to snap the streak at 55.2 innings, but the Sens still prevail 10-5.

1914 In Washington, Chicago's Jim Scott no hits the Senators for 9 innings, but Chicago is unable to score in regulation. In the bottom of the 10th, future "Black Sock" Chick Gandil collects the Sens first hit and scores the winning run on Howie Shanks single as the Sens defeat the White Sox 1-0. With the victory, the Senators will begin a season best 7 game winning streak.

1918 Due to increased population caused by WWI and the need for recreation activities, Sunday baseball is legalized in the District of Columbia. Five days later, the Sens beat Cleveland in the first legal Sunday game 1-0.

1920 It's career victory number 300 for the Big Train as the Nats topple Detroit 9-8 at Griffith.

1961 After recording their first ever shutout yesterday, the expansion Senators complete their first ever doubleheader sweep. Joe McClain and Bernie Daniels are the winning pitchers in the twin bill as the Sens sweep the Red Sox 3-0 and 2-1.

1964 The Orioles are unable to solve former teammate Buster Narum, who throws a complete game 4 hitter in a 4-1 Senators win at RFK. Nats 3B Don Zimmer provides all the offense with a 2nd inning grand slam off eventual Hall of Famer Robin Roberts.

Senators Birthdays

Doc Burrell Land B May 14, 1903 D Apr. 14, 1986

Another "One Game Wonder" for the Senators, Doc Land appeared in 1 game as an outfielder in 1906, playing centerfield and batting 0-3 with 1 walk.

Doc Land career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=landdo01)

Anthony (Tony) Smith B May 14, 1884 D Feb. 27, 1964

Tony Smith's career began with the 1907 Senators where he played 51 games as a shortstop. His weak hitting (BA .187) was most likely the reason he did not return to Washington in 1908.
In 1910 & 1911, he was on the roster of the Brooklyn National League team. In 1910 they were known as the "Superbas" with the team name changing to "Dodgers" for the 1911 season. Regardless of team name, Tony's hitting didn't improve much and he departed the majors after 13 games in 1911.

Tony Smith career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=smithto03)

[Steve Jeltz]

1901 The first ever shutout in American League history belongs to Washington. Watty Lee blanks the Boston Americans 4-0 in Boston.

1918 Walter Johnson and Chicago's Lefty Williams each go the distance for 18 scoreless innings. The Nats push a run across in the bottom of the 18th to win 1-0.

1941 Johnny Bloodworth collects the Sens only hit in the bottom of the 7th as the Brown's Denny Galehouse whitewashes the Sens 7-0.

1952 At Detroit, Virgil "Fire" Trucks throws a no hitter as the Tigers beat Washington 1-0. Vic Wertz hits a 2 out, 9th inning, game winning home run of the Sens Bob Porterfield for Detroit's only run.

1965 The 17 year career of Roy Sievers comes to an end as the Senators release the former Rookie of the Year. Over his career, Sievers had a lifetime batting avg. of .267, with 318 HR and 1,147 RBI. Sievers' best seasons were in Washington, where he compiled 4 seasons of knocking in 100 plus RBI. The slugger, in addition to his two stints as a Senator, also played for the Browns, White Sox and Phillies.

1970 The late inning heroics of Frank Howard go for naught as relievers Horatico Pina and Darold Knowles are unable to preserve a 3-2, 9th inning lead over Baltimore. Howard's solo homer, his 12th of the year, in the bottom of the 8th gives the Sens the lead, but the Orioles promptly tie it back up in the 9th. In the top of the 11th, Curt Motton's RBI single gives Baltimore the 4-3 victory.

1971 The Senators battle back from an 8th inning 3-0 deficit to outlast Detroit 4-3 in 15 innings at RFK. Recently acquired Don Mincher's solo homer in the 15th wins it for the home team.

Senators Birthdays

Another quartet of Senators birthdays to note this May 15th...

Joseph Patton (Joe) Evans B May 15, 1895 D Aug. 9, 1953

An 11 year major leaguer who spent most of his career with the Cleveland Indians, Joe Evans spent the 1923 season with the Senators, doing duty in the outfield, and at first and third base. A lifetime .259 hitter, Evans managed a .263 BA in Washington. He'd finish his time in the majors with the St. Louis Browns in 1924 & 1925.

Joe Evans career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=evansjo01)

Lloyd Benjamin (Ben) Spencer B May 15, 1890 D Sep. 1, 1970

Eight games with the Senators in September of 1913, with a .286 BA make up the career of Ben Spencer. His grandson, long time major leaguer Jim Spencer, is probably better remembered.

Ben Spencer career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=spencbe01)

Claude Alfred Thomas B May 15, 1890 D Mar. 6, 1946

Pitching in 7 games for the 1916 Senators, Claude Thomas makes the record books with a 1-2 W/L record and an ERA of 4.13.

Claude Thomas career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=thomacl01)

James Charles (Jimmy) Wasdell B May 15, 1914 D Aug. 6, 1983

Jimmy Wasdell played in the majors for 11 years. Starting with the Senators in 1937, he would also appear in the uniforms of the Brooklyn Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Phillies and Cleveland Indians. He would appear in 1 game with the Indians in April of 1947 at the end of his major league service.

An outfielder/1st baseman during his time in Washington, he never saw much playing time. In 1938 he would appear in 53 games. His best year at bat while in a Senators uniform would be 1939 when he hit .303 while appearing in only 29 games. His most active seasons would be with the Phillies in 1943-1945.

Jimmy Wasdell career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=wasdeji01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1921 Led by the bat of Ty Cobb, who pounds out 4 hits, scores 4 runs and swipes a base, the Tigers complete a 3 game sweep of the Nats in Detroit by a 17-11 score. Senators pitching gives up 33 runs in the series.

1930 The Senators sweep a twin bill from the Philadelphia A's 5-3 and 4-0 at Shibe Park. The wins move the Senators into first place ahead of eventual AL champion Philadelphia.

1933 In a wild extra inning contest with Cleveland at Griffith Stadium, both squads combine to use a then ML record 11 pitchers as the Sens win 11-10 in 12 innings. SS Cecil Travis collects 5 hits in his ML debut.

1968 Frank Howard continues his torrid hitting with his third 2 HR game in 4 games as the Sens defeat the Tribe in Cleveland 4-1. Howard, with his 2 homers, ties the AL record with 7 HR in 4 games (at least 1 homer in each game). LHP Barry Moore picks up his first victory of the season, with Dennis Higgins getting the save.

1969 At Comiskey Park, 1B Mike Epstein slugs 3 home runs, but it is not enough as the Nats fall to the White Sox 7-6. The Sens overcome a 6-1 Sox lead, but Chicago's Carlos May leadoff homer off Casey Cox in the bottom of the 7th is the difference maker. All the Senators runs are scored on home runs, as Frank Howard collects his 14th and PH Brant Alyea connects off the White Sox Wilbur Wood.

Reference: http://www.baseballlibrary.com/chronology/thisday.php?month=5&day=16

Senators Birthdays

The stork gets a break-no player for the Washington Senators was born on May 16th.

[TallIndian]

What I remember most at the 3-homer game was that we lost on the Carlos May homer and that, the next day, on MLB game of the week, Curt Gowdy kept referring to Mike as 'Mike Ep-STINE'.

Epstein, IIRC, may have been batting .086 before being sent to Buffalo. Ted Williams bought him back up and platooned him with some success.

Epstein seemed to be in a long line of Orioles who had fabulous minor league power stats but never consistently acheived those same stats in the majors -- Curt Blefary, Roger Freed, Drungo Hazewood were the others that I recall.

[Steve Jeltz]

1925 At Cleveland, Tris Speaker picks up hit number 3,000 of his fabulous career, but the Senators spoil the occasion by winning 2-1.

1930 The Nats trample Philadelphia 16-5. In the bottom of the 5th, OF Sammy West of the Sens hits a 3 run homer that causes a fan to have a fatal heart attack.

1935 Should be Hall of Famer Buddy Myer goes 3 for 3, with 4 RBI, as the Sens hold off Detroit 10-8 in the nation's capital.

1946 Bob Feller strikes out 14 Washington batsmen as the Tribe shutouts the Nats 4-0 in game one of a doubleheader in Cleveland. Washington takes the 2nd game, 9-4, as the game is called in the 8th due to darkness.

1961 In the House that Ruth Built, the Senators stave off a late inning rally by the Yanks and hold on for the 8-7 victory. Roger Maris hits just his 4th homer of the year and begins a stretch of hitting 24 HR in 38 games. Maris would, of course, hit 61 homers in 1961.

1968 Sailing into the top of the 9th with a one hitter and a 2-1 lead, Tigers pitcher Joe Sparma gives up a leadoff single to Del Unser. One out later, Sparma faces the white hot Frank Howard. Hondo belts his 8th homer in 5 games to give the Sens a 3-2 lead.

But, unfortunately for the Nats, there was a bottom frame of the inning. P Dave Balwin gives up a leadoff single to Norm Cash. After a sac bunt moved PR Dick Tracewski to second, Nats manager Jim Lemon summons P Steve Jones in from the bullpen. Jones induces PH Mickey Stanley to hit a grounder to first for what would have been the second out, but Howard boots the grounder, putting Tigers at 1st and 3rd. Detroit promptly ties it up with game tying single from PH Jim Price. After Jones walks Dick McAuliffe to load the bases, the dangerous Jim Northup steps in. Northup deposits a Jones pitch for a game winning grand slam and a difficult 7-3 loss.

1971 A seemingly harmless pop fly by Sens RF Tom McGraw to shallow left center results in a violent collision between Indians SS Jack Heideman, LF John Lowenstein and CF Vada Pinson. McGraw races around the bases for a solo inside the park homer, but the Senators still fall 6-3 at RFK. Heideman, Lowenstein and Pinson were all injured on the play and had to be taken out of the game.

References: http://www.baseballlibrary.com/chronology/thisday.php?month=5&day=17

http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/DET/DET196805170.shtml

http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/WS2/WS2197105170.shtml

Senators Birthday

Frank Russell Woodward B May 17, 1894 D Jun. 11, 1961

Frank Woodward pitched in the major leagues for 5 years with 4 teams. Starting with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1918, his baseball travels also took him to St. Louis (Cardinals), Washington and Chicago (White Sox). He was on the roster of the Washington Senators in 1921 and 1922 but only appeared in 4 games during those 2 years. His most active season was 1919 when he appeared in 34 games, split evenly at 17 games each in a Phillies and Cardinals uniform.

Frank Woodward career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=woodwfr01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1906 In the 6th inning, Washington's game against Chicago is interrupted when Senators P "Long" Tom Hughes goes after a heckler in the stands. The "Hitless Wonder" White Sox rout the Sens 10-0 in Washington.

1913 Ty Cobb's steal of home in the bottom of the 7th is the only run that Walter Johnson allows as the Sens nip the Tigers 2-1.

1930 The Nats lead in the AL is trimmed to 1 game as Lefty Grove and the Philadelphia A's win 2-1 at Griffith. Sens P Lloyd Brown is the tough luck loser as he surrenders only 3 hits.

1954 The Senators first visit to Baltimore since 1902 is a success as Mickey McDermott gets the victory in the 3-1 win.

1956 1B Pete Runnels goes 5 for 6, including hitting the go ahead single in the top of the 11th, as the Senators top Cleveland 5-4 in 11 innings. Sens C Clint Courtney raps 3 doubles in the game.

1964 Sens CF Don Lock goes yard twice and drives in 4, but a costly error by Nats 3B Don Zimmer opens the floodgates for a Detroit rally in the top of the 9th. The Tigers go on to score 3 in the inning for a 7-6 Detroit victory.

1965 Featuring a Frank Howard grand slam, the Sens drop 7 runs on Detroit in the top of the 5th as the Nats roll to a 15-9 win.

1967 At RFK, Sens P Pete Richert shuts out the Orioles 2-0. 11 days later, Baltimore losing pitcher Frank Bertaina and O's farmhand Mike Epstein will be traded to Washington for Richert.

1968 Frank Howard concludes his record setting week by tying the AL record with homers in 6 straight games in the Senators 8-4 win at Detroit. His 10 homers in 6 games are a major league record, as is his 10 homers during a single week (Sunday through Saturday).

Senators Birthdays

Gilbert Fitzgerald (Gil) Coan B May 18, 1922 Still living

Gil Coan was an outfielder who player 11 years in the major leagues, getting his start with the Senators in 1946. He appeared in over 100 games a year from 1948 through 1952, managing back to back batting averages of .303 in 1950 & '51. After a drop in production in 1953 he was traded to the newly relocated Baltimore Orioles for Roy Sievers. Gil spent 1954 and part of 1955 in Baltimore, also playing for the Chicago White Sox and the New York Giants that same season. His career came to an end in 1956 after only 4 games with the Giants in April of that year.

Gil Coan career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=coangi01)

Kenneth Lee Hamlin B May 18, 1935 Still living

Primarily a shortstop during his 7 year career, Ken Hamlin played for the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1957 & 1959, spent the 1960 season with the Kansas City Athletics, 1961 with the Los Angeles Angels before finishing his major league career with the Senators in 1962, 1965 & 1966. His most active season was 1960 when he appeared in 140 games for Kansas City. In 1965 he hit .273 with 4 home runs for the Senators.

Ken Hamlin career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=hamlike01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1919 The Nats are shutout in Detroit 6-0. The loss begins a season high 11 game losing streak that will drop the Sens into 7th place, where they will stay for the rest of the season, finishing 56-84.

1923 After Walter Johnson gives up 3 runs in the 9th, Allan Russell relieves Johnson as the Senators defeat the Sox 6-4 at Commiskey. Johnson's 2 run single in the top of the 9th proves to be the difference.

1925 The Big Train's bat does the talking again. Batting as a pinch hitter in the 9th, Johnson hits a game winning, opposite field homer in Cleveland as the Senators edge the Indians 4-3. Johnson becomes only the second right handed batter to clear the 45 foot right field wall at League Park. The Senators improve to 20-9 on the young season, 1 game back of Philadelphia, with the win.

1946 The Nats broom the White Sox in a twinbill at Chicago. Pale Hose P Ted Lyons absorbs the 4-3 loss in the opener. In game 2, Mickey Vernon hits for the cycle as the Nats hit around Ed Lopat for a 7-1 victory.

1952 Clark Griffith sells C Sherry Robertson, his nephew, to the Philadelphia A's. Robertson will return to Washington in 1953 in a front office capacity.

1966 In Cleveland, SS Ed Brinkman and P Mike McCormick hit back to back homers off Luis Tiant in the 5th. Washington wins easily, 7-2.

1968 A triple dose of bad news for the Sens today in Detroit. First, Frank Howard's consecutive home run streak is halted at 6 games by Detroit's Earl Wilson. Second, the Nats lose the game 5-4. Third, behind the home runs of Dick McAuliffe and future Hall of Famers Al Kaline and Eddie Mathews, the Nats are whitewashed in the nitecap of this doubleheader 7-0.

Senators Birthdays

A trio of Senators birthdays to note this May 19th...

Baldomero Pedro Fernandez (Merito) Acosta B May 19, 1896 D Nov. 17, 1963

Merito Acosta was one of the very early members of the Senators' "Cuban Connection", playing the outfield for Washington from 1913-1918, with a break in 1917. After 3 games with the 1918 Senators he went to Philadelphia to play for the Athletics. Used sparingly, his most active season was 1915 when he appeared in 72 games for Washington. However, his best year at bat was his last, when he hit .302, with 51 hits for the A's. Merito Acosta is the brother of Jose Acosta, who pitched for the Senators in 1920 & 1921.

"Merito" Acosta career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=acostme01)

Jacob Willard (Jake) Early B May 19, 1915 D May 31, 1985

A catcher who played 9 years in the major leagues, Jake Early appeared in a Senators uniform from 1939-1943, then had his career interrupted due to military service in 1944 & 1945. He returned to the Senators in 1946. He was traded to the St. Louis Browns for catcher Frank Mancuso prior to the 1947 season. After playing for the Browns in 1947, he was purchased by the Senators and returned to Washington, finishing his career in 1949. His most active season was 1943 when he appeared in 126 games, his best year at the plate 1941 when he hit .287 with 10 home runs.

Jake Early career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=earlyja01)

Hugh Henry (Hughie) Tate B May 19, 1880 D Aug. 7, 1956

Another "One Season Wonder" for the Senators, Hughie Tate's career consisted of appearing in 4 games in late September 1905 where he played left field and went 4 for 13 at bat with one triple, good for a .308 BA.

Hughie Tate career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=tatehu01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1909 After opening the season with 5 losses, Walter Johnson picks up his first victory over the Naps at Cleveland 3-2.

1920 Deadlocked at the end of 14 innings at 3, the White Sox and Senators each score twice in the 15th. In the top of the 16th, the Pale Hose explode for 8 runs, a ML record for runs scored by a team in the 16th inning, as the Nats lose 13-5.

1948 At St. Louis, the Sens get trounced by the Browns 17-7. The 17 runs is the most allowed by the Sens this year.

1952 In his third year in the bigs, 40 year old P Connie Marrero shuts out the Browns at Sportsman Park 2-0. 1952 would be Marrero's best season with a 11-8 record and a 2.88 ERA.

1962 The Sens and Kansas City A's split a doubleheader in D.C. Claude Osteen's solid start goes for naught as he surrenders a ninth inning homer to Manny Jimenez for a 1-0 A's win in the opener. The Sens avoid the broom by pulling out a 7-5 victory in the second game.

1965 At Tiger Stadium, the Senators blow 1 run leads in the 9th and 10th innings of a 9-8 defeat to the Tigers. After the Nats score 2 in the top of the 9th to take a 7-6 lead, Detroit C Bill Freehan ties it in the bottom frame with an RBI double. In the top of the 10th, PH Don Lock regains the Senators lead with a solo HR off Tiger P Ron Nischwitz. Now winning 8-7 in the bottom of the 10th, Sens P Marshall Bridges gives up a 2 run, game winning HR to Senators nemesis Dick McAuliffe.

1966 Trailing the California Angels 5-2 going into the bottom of the 8th, the Sens stage a comeback. A 2 run HR by C Paul Casanova and a RBI single from RF Fred Valentine ties the game in the 8th. Frank Howard's RBI single in the bottom of the 9th off Angels P Lew Burdette completes the comeback and the Nats 6-5 win.

1969 The Senators record their first ever victory over the Seattle Pilots at RFK 6-5. Mike Epstein's socks a 2 run homer in the 8th to put the Sens in the lead for good. Dennis Higgins gets the victory, while Seattle's Marty Pattin absorbs the loss.

Senators Birthdays

It's "A through Z" today, as May 20 has 5 Senators birthdays, starting with Appleton and ending with Zardon...

Peter William Appleton* B May 20, 1904 D Jan. 18, 1974

*=Baseball Reference notes that Pete Appleton was born "Peter William Jablonoski" and legally changed his name to Appleton in 1933.

Pete Appleton played 14 years in the big leagues, from 1927 through 1945 although he did not appear in the majors in 1934 or 1935. Starting with the 1927 Cincinnati Reds, his career saw him on the rosters of the Cleveland Indians, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Washington Senators (twice), Chicago White Sox and the St. Louis Browns. After appearing in 1 game for the 1933 Yankees, Appleton wouldn't appear in a major league game again until 1936 when he was picked up by the Senators. A pitcher, Appleton's best season was 1936 when he appeared in 38 games for Washington, going 14-9 with an ERA of 3.53.

After the '39 season, he was traded to the White Sox, along with Taffy Wright for Gee Walker.

Pete Appleton career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=applepe01)

Joseph Harris B May 20, 1891 D Dec. 10, 1959

Joe Harris was another player who bounced around the majors, playing for 6 teams in a 10 year career that included some "broken service". Primarily a first baseman, Harris also played in the outfield and could fill in at short and 3rd. Appearing in 2 games for the 1914 Yankees, Harris would show up in the majors again with the Cleveland Indians in 1917 & 1919 and not return again until he made the Red Sox roster in 1922. He appeared in 192 games with the Senators in 1925 & 1926, hitting .323 with 12 home runs in 1925. From Washington, he headed west, to spend 1927 and a portion of 1928 with the Pittsburgh Pirates and finished the season, and his major league career with the 1928 Brooklyn Robins.

Joe Harris career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=harrijo03)

Tom Stephen (Plowboy) Morgan B May 20, 1930 D Jan. 13, 1987

Appearing in 14 games with the 1960 Senators, where he went 1-3 with an ERA of 3.75, Tom Morgan started with the Yankees in 1951 and ended his career with the 1963 Los Angeles Angels. His 8-2 record with the 1961 Angels was his best season. Morgan also appeared on the roster of the Kansas City Athletics and the Detroit Tigers.

Tom Morgan career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=morgato01)

Earl Wellington Rapp B May 20, 1921 D Feb. 13, 1992

Outfielder Earl Rapp played for 5 teams while only spending 3 years in the major leagues. Splitting 1949 between the Detroit Tigers and the Chicago White Sox, Rapp returned to the majors in 1951 splitting that season between the New York Giants and the St. Louis Browns. He returned with the Browns in 1952 only to be sent to the Washington Senators after appearing in 30 games for St. Louis. He appeared in an additional 46 games for the Senators and then disappeared from the major league scene. He actually had a couple of decent half seasons, hitting .327 in 26 games for the 1951 Browns and .284 in 46 games for the '52 Senators. I think the poor guy just tired of moving.

Earl Rapp career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=rappea01)

Jose Antonio Sanchez Zardon B May 20, 1923 Still living

Appearing for just 1 season (1945) with the Senators, Jose Zardon hit .290, appearing in 54 games and playing in the outfield for the Senators.

Jose Zardon career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=zardojo01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1913 Trailing Cleveland 2-0 in the top of the 9th, Washington's Alva "Rip" Williams ties the contest with a 2 run, pinch HR. After the Sens score 2 more in the top of the 10th, Walter Johnson is bought in to seal the 4-2 victory.

1925 The Big Train goes 3 for 4 and the Sens defeat the Tigers 6-2 in Detroit. Both teams combine for 9 double plays, a major league record for a 9 inning game.

1935 Bobo goes to Washington. The Senators purchase the contract of St. Louis Brown pitcher Bobo Newsome for the then astronomical sum of $40,000. It is the first of 5 stints that Newsome would have in Washington.

1940 At Comiskey Park, erstwhile Senator and future Sen manager Joe Kuhel collects 5 hits against his ex mates as the White Sox edge the Sens 9-8.

1943 In the fastest night game played in AL history, the White Sox shutout the Senators 1-0 at Griffith. The contest is completed in 1 hour and 29 minutes.

1955 It's Fight Night at Griffith, as Senators P Mickey McDermott and Boston OF Jackie Jenson exchange blows after McDermott applies a hard tag on Jenson. Despite the bout between the players that were traded for one another after the 1953 season, the Senators throw the knockout punch on Boston when they push a run across in the bottom of the 12th for the 1-0 win.

1963 With the Senators mired in 10th place at 14-26 after tonight's 4-3 loss to Chicago, manager Mickey Vernon is dismissed as the Nats manager. Gil Hodges would succeed Vernon two days later, after coach Eddie Yost manages for one game on an interim basis.

1970 Despite 11 walks issued by New York P Mel Stottlemyre, the Senators fail to capitalize as they fall to the Yanks 2-0 at Yankee Stadium. The 11 free passes by Stottlemyre ties a major league record for walks issued in a shutout.

Senators Birthdays

Just a pair of Senators birthdays to note today...

Yancey Wyatt (Doc) Ayers B May 21, 1891 D May 26, 1968

Doc Ayers spent 9 years in the major leagues beginning with the Senators in 1913. Probably his best season was the 1915 campaign, when he went 14-9 with a 2.21 ERA. Traded to the Detroit Tigers during the 1919 season, he would end his career with Detroit in 1921.

Doc Ayers career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=ayersdo01)

Edward Raymond Fitz Gerald B May 21, 1924 Still living

Ed Fitz Gerald first appeared as a major league catcher in 1948 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. In May 1953, he was purchased by the Washington Senators where he would spend the next 6 seasons. In May of 1959 he was traded by the Senators to the Cleveland Indians for Hal Naragon and Hal Woodeshick. He would be released by the Indians in April of 1960 before appearing during the regular season.

Never heavily utilized, his most active seasons were 1948 (102 games) and 1954 (115 games). A career .260 hitter, possibly his best season was 1956 when he batted .304 while appearing in 64 games.

Ed Fitz Gerald career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=fitzged01)

[Steve Jeltz]

May 22 was a relatively uneventful day in Washington Senator history.

1938 At Griffith Stadium, Ted Lyons of Chicago collects his 200th career victory as the Sox down the Nats 9-2.

1953 Sparked by OF Clyde Vollmer's 3 run double and 2 run homer, the Senators pound Yankee pitching for 18 hits in a 12-4 Senators rout. In the top of the 9th, Yanks OF Irv Noren lines into a game ending triple play. Former Yankee farmhand Bob Porterfield pitches the CG.

1963 Eddie Yost's managerial career record will go into the record books at 0-1. Yost, in place of disposed skipper Mickey Vernon, pilots the Sens to a 9-3 drubbing at the hands of the White Sox in RFK.

Senators Birthdays

Another quintet of birthdays on May 22nd...

Franklin (Frank) Coggins B May 22, 1944 Still living

Frank Coggins played for parts of 2 seasons for the expansion Senators, starting as a late season call up in 1967. A second baseman, Coggins managed a .307 average with 1 home run in 19 games. Unfortunately, that would be the best performance of his career. With the 1968 Senators, he played in 62 games, managing a .175 average before being demoted to AAA.
Coggins would appear in 6 games, with 1 AB for the 1972 Chicago Cubs.

Frank Coggins career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=coggifr01)

Foster Pirie (Babe) Ganzel B May 22, 1901 D Feb. 6, 1978

Outfielder Babe Ganzel is another player who started out with some pretty impressive numbers but quickly fizzled. Playing his first major league games with the Senators in late September 1927, Ganzel managed to hit .438, going 21 for 48 while appearing in 13 games. Returning in 1928, he only appeared in 10 games, hitting just 2 for 26, a paltry .077 BA. Ganzel would never appear in the majors again.

Babe Ganzel career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=ganzeba01)

Decatur Poindexter (Dick) Jones B May 22, 1902 D Aug. 2, 1994

Dick Jones appeared in 4 games with the Senators in 1926, going 2-1 with a 4.29 ERA. In 1927 he was limited to 2 appearances, pitching 3.1 innings and giving up 8 runs. Mr. Jones would also disappear from major league rosters after April of 1927.

Dick Jones career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=jonesdi01)

Aloysius Harry Szymanski AKA "Bucketfoot" Al Simmons B May 22, 1902 D May 26, 1956

Hall of Famer Al Simmons should need no introduction, however, in keeping with the format of this thread, outfielder Al Simmons spent 20 years in the major leagues, primarily with the Philadelphia Athletics. He actually spent 3 separate stints with the A's: 1924-1932, 1940-1941 & 1944.

He also appeared with the Chicago White Sox, Detroit Tigers, Washington Senators, Boston Bees, Cincinnati Reds and Boston Red Sox.

He appeared in 3 consecutive World Series (1929-1931) while in Philadelphia with both the 1929 and 1930 teams becoming World Champions. He also appeared in the 1939 World Series while with the Reds.

Simmons was the starting center fielder in the All Star games of 1933, 1934 & 1935. Among his impressive statistics are 157 RBI in 1929, and batting averages of .381 in 1930 and .390 in 1931, all league-leading feats.

With the Senators in 1937 and 1938, his better year was 1938 when he batted .302 with 21 home runs.

"Bucketfoot" Al Simmons career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=simmoal01)

Jose Martinez de Valdivielso (Lopez) B May 22, 1934 Still living

Another member of the frequently mentioned "Cuban connection", Jose Valdivielso was a utility infielder with the Senators. First appearing in 1955, he was on the Senators roster again in 1956. He would not return to the majors until 1959, having his most active year in 1960 when he appeared in 117 games. He would move west with the original Senators to become a Minnesota Twin where his major league career would end in 1961.

Jose Valdivielso career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=valdijo01)

[Steve Jeltz]

1901 An inglorious record is set today by the Nats in Cleveland. Up 13-5 on the Blues with 2 outs and no runners on base in the 9th, the Blues set a major league record by plating 9 runs for a stunning 14-13 win.

1924 Striking out a career high 14 and allowing only 1 safety, Walter Johnson records his 103rd career shutout with a 4-0 victory over the White Sox in D.C. The only hit by the Pale Hose belongs to Harry Hooper.

1927 In the 1st inning of today's game at Griffith, the Yankees appear on the road to another victory as Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig slug back-to-back homers. Sens P Sloppy Thurston settles down and the Senators score 3 runs to down the Yanks 3-2.

1929 In Shibe Park, the A's take both ends of a doubleheader, both by 9-8 scores. The Senator's offense scores 8 runs in the first two innings of the opener, but the Mackmen battle back for the 9-8 win. In game 2, Rube Wahlberg goes the distance for Philadelphia. Senators OF Ossie Bluege homers in both games.

1956 In a 17 inning marathon at Kansas City, the Sens fall to the A's 7-6. After Roy Sievers scores on a Whitey Herzog double in the top of the 17th to give the Senators a 6-5 lead, the A's score 2 in the bottom half courtesy of a solo home run by Jim Finigan and a wild pitch by P Camilio Pasqual that allows Clete Boyer to score the winning run. Sens SS Jim Snyder wears an 0-for-8 collar for the game.

1963 New Nats manager Gil Hodges is acquired in a trade from the Mets for OF Jimmy Piersall. Hodges arrives in Baltimore just in time to watch the Orioles' Robin Roberts 2 hit the Sens 6-0. Senators starter Claude Osteen is battered for 6 runs and 7 hits in 2.1 innings of work. Light hitting SS Ed Brinkman gets the only 2 hits off of Roberts.

1971 Denny McLain returns to Detroit for the first time with his new team. Two of his former teammates, Al Kaline and Norm Cash, welcome him back by each slugging 2 run homers as the Tigers smoke the Sens 5-0. In the nitecap, the Tigers maul the Senators and starter Mike Thompson 11-0.

Senators Birthdays

Another round of 5 birthdays of note this May 23rd...

Harry Stephen Patrick Chesley AKA Harry Child B May 23, 1905 D Nov. 8, 1972

Pitcher Harry Child appeared in 5 games for the 1930 Senators, pitching a grand total of 10 innings with a career ERA of 6.30.

Harry Child career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=childha01)

Jose Luis (Chile) Gonzales Gomez B May 23, 1909 D Dec. 1, 1992

Infielder Chile Gomez started his career with the 1935 Philadelphia Phillies. He appeared in 108 games for the Phillies in 1936 and then disappeared from the major league scene until 1942 when he returned for 25 games with the 1942 Senators. Never a very potent hitter, Gomez' best year was 1936 when he stroked 77 hits, with 28 RBI, for the Phillies.

Chile Gomez career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=gomezch01)

George Willis Hudlin B May 23, 1906 D Aug. 5, 2002

Pitcher Willis Hudlin spent 16 years in the major leagues, mainly with the Cleveland Indians. Starting with the Indians in 1926, Hudlin appeared in 25 or more games every year from 1927 through 1939. In 1940 however, Hudlin was bounced around like a pinball. Starting with the Indians at the beginning of the season, Hudlin played for the Washington Senators, St. Louis Browns and New York Giants all within the span of that 1 season. He would make one last major league appearance in 1944 with the pennant winning St. Louis Browns.

Hudlin's brief tenure with the Senators lasted from May 18-July 13, 1940 when he appeared in 8 games, starting 6 and going 1-2 with a 6.51 ERA.

Willis Hudlin career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=hudliwi01)

Francis Mortimer (Frank) Kelliher B May 23, 1899 D Mar. 4, 1956

Another "One Game Wonder", up for a very short cup of coffee with the 1919 Senators, Frank Kelliher appeared for 1 at bat on September 19, 1919. He did not get a hit nor did he appear in the field.

Frank Kelliher career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=kellifr01)

Frank Octavius Mancuso B May 23, 1918 D Aug. 4, 2007

Frank Mancuso was the younger brother of Gus Mancuso who played in the major leagues for 17 years. Frank Mancuso was a fine player as well, getting his start as a professional baseball player in 1937 in the farm system of the New York Giants. He actually spent the entire 1939 season with the Giants but never appeared in a game, being relegated to the role of bullpen catcher.

His baseball career interrupted by World War II, Frank was seriously injured during parachute training at Ft. Benning, Georgia. He spent 5 months in an Army hospital and had to endure a number of operations. After recovering, his injuries rendered him unfit for further military service. However, through hard work and determination, he was able to make it back to the major leagues even if it was in a limited capacity.

Playing for the St. Louis Browns from 1944-1946, his most active season was 1945 when he appeared in 119 games, hitting .268 with 98 hits, including 13 doubles, 3 triples and 1 home run. He finished his major league career in 1947 with the Senators, hitting .229 in 43 games.

Frank Mancuso career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=mancufr01)

Texas Baseball Hall Of Fame writeup by Bill McCurdy (http://www.tbhof.org/features/feature-20070804.htm)

SABR biography by Jim Sargent (http://bioproj.sabr.org/bioproj.cfm?a=v&v=l&pid=8751&bid=1936)

Frank Mancuso baseball card (Courtesy of Bill McCurdy)

[Steve Jeltz]

1901 After yesterday's 9th inning meltdown by the Nats in Cleveland, Washington turns the tables with a 5 run top of the 9th to tie the Blues. The rally does not result in a win, as the game is called with the score knotted at 5.

1917 Pale Hose P Reb Russell goes the distance as the White Sox defeat the Sens 1-0 in 12 innings in Chicago.

1943 Former Yankee and Senator nemesis Lefty Gomez signs with Washington following his release from the Boston Braves. Gomez will lose in his only appearance with the Sens before retiring.

1951 Behind the two hit pitching of the Tribe's Bob Feller and the hitting of Larry Doby, the Indians trample the Senators 16-0 in Washington. The Sens are currently in the midst of a 9 game losing streak, during which the pitching staff allows 85 runs in those 9 games.

1958 Two run singles by Eddie Yost, Ron Bridges & Jim Lemon erase a 3-0, top of 8th inning hole as the Sens beat Cleveland 6-3. All the Senators runs are scored in the 6 run, 8th inning eruption.

1966 Down 1-0 in the bottom of the 9th against the Kansas City A's, PH Don Lock's 2 out, 2 run game winning home run lifts the Senators to a thrilling 2-1 victory.

Senators Birthdays

Five more birthdays to note on May 24th...

Vernon Eugene Curtis B May 24, 1920 D Jun. 24, 1992

Pitcher Vern Curtis played for the Senators in 1943, 1944 & 1946, appearing in a grand total of 16 games, pitching in 30 innings. He had a W/L record of 0-1 and a career ERA of 5.70.

Vern Curtis career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=curtive01)

James Raymond Duckworth B May 24, 1939 Still living

Jim Duckworth was also a pitcher who played for the Senators in the 1963-1966 seasons. In June of 1966 he was traded to the Kansas City Athletics for Ken (Hawk) Harrelson. A little over a month later he was traded back to Washington for Diego Segui. However, he would not return to the major leagues after his last appearance in a Kansas City uniform.

His most active season was his rookie year of 1963 when he went 4-12 for a hapless expansion Senators team that would finish at 56-106.

Jim Duckworth career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=duckwji01)

Guillermo Perez (Willy) Miranda B May 24, 1926 D Sep. 7, 1996

Yet another of Washington's "Cuban Connection", Willy Miranda, primarily a second baseman/shortstop, got his start in the majors with the Senators in 1951. He only ever appeared in 7 games for Washington. During the offseason he would be traded to the White Sox for Floyd Baker. His baseball journey would also take him to the St. Louis Browns, New York Yankees and end up with the Baltimore Orioles where he spent the last 5 years of his career. His best season offensively would be 1955 when he batted .255, stroking 124 hits in 487 AB.

Willy Miranda career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=miranwi01)

Ernest Raeford (Mule) Shirley B May 24, 1901 D Aug. 3, 1955

First baseman Mule Shirley played in 44 games for the Senators in 1924 & 1925. He appeared in 3 World Series games for the 1924 World Championship team, going 1 for 2 at bat.

Mule Shirley career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=shirlmu01)

Clay Van Alstyne B May 24, 1900 D Jan. 5, 1960

Another pitcher with a short career, Van Alstyne appeared in 6 games with the Senators between August 1927 and May 1928, finishing his major league service with a 0-0 record, 24.1 innings pitched and an ERA of 5.18.

Clay Van Alstyne career record (http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=vanalcl01)

[Steve Jeltz]

The SABR and Bill McCurdy articles about Frank Mancuso were inspiring, moving and touching. The man suffers a broken leg and back while in a paratrooping accident during training in the Army. Through hard work, dedication and perseverance, Mancuso comes back and plays the game that he loves again for 11 years and serves the city of Houston as a respected city councilman for 30 years.

Some think that a career minor leaguer who plays 12 years in the bushes before getting their major league chance is inspiring, but it pales in comparison to the character of Frank Mancuso.

[Steve Jeltz]

1908 An unusual occurrence happens in today's game in the nation's capital. Detroit scores an unearned run in the