What happened today in team history?
1962 – Franchise’s first shutout
For the first time in franchise history, the Houston Astros complete a shutout, getting the 3-0 win over the Chicago Cubs. Dean Stone tossed a complete-game, allowing only three hits and helping Houston start the season 3-0.
1980 – Nolan goes yard
In his first game as an Astro, a 33-year-old Nolan Ryan blasted a three-run shot off of Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Don Sutton for the first home run of his career.
2017 – A sign for the season
After falling behind 5-0 to the Seattle Mariners, the Astros, on the back of seven extra-base hits, comeback for the 10-5 win. This was the first sign that this team may have something special working for them and could go all the way.
What else happened on this day?
1906
Boston Beaneaters’ rookie Johnny Bates becomes the first player in MLB history to homer in his first big league at-bat.
1922
The National League got rid of the bench manager role, which started back in 1900. A playing manager was something that was big in early baseball, and the American league wouldn’t get rid of it until 1930.