What happened today in team history?
1962 – First opening day in Houston
For the first time, Major League Baseball is played in Houston as the Cold .45s take on the Chicago Cubs in their first game as a franchise, one that they went on to win 11-2. Bobby Shantz was the starting pitcher for the Colt .45s, getting Houston baseball officially started with a strikeout of Lou Brock.
1973 – J.R. Richard enters the record books, but not in a good way
During a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Astros starter J.R. Richard tied an MLB record and became the third pitcher in MLB history to throw six wild pitches in a single game. During that game, he also managed 13 strikeouts, helping the Astros to a 2-1 win.
2003 – Biggio also enters the books
With a leadoff home run in a game against the Cincinnati Reds, Craig Biggio sets a new National League record with his 31st leadoff home run, breaking Bobby Bonds’ record. He would hit another 20, keeping him first all-time in the National League record books in leadoff homers and fourth all time, eventually hitting 53.
What else happened on this day?
1913
The New York Highlanders make an official name change, changing their names to the New York Yankees.
1947
In a day that is remembered in history, Jackie Robinson became the first African American baseball player in history when he stepped on the field for the Brookly Dodgers.
1961
The Washington Senators play the first game in their franchise’s history with first-year President JFK throwing out the first pitch.