What happened today in team history?
1966 – Florida tornado hits Astros
A tornado rips through the Astros Spring Training complex in Cocoa, Florida. Tons of damage is done to the area, including three downed light towers, one of which smashed into the stranded at the stadium, a ruined scoreboard and messed up batting cages.
1982 – J.R. Richard’s last outing
In what ended up being his last time on the mound, Astros pitcher J.R. Richard threw one inning in an exhibition game against the Toronto Blue Jays. This was part of his attempt to come back to the game after suffering a stroke in 1980.
What else happened on this day?
1911
Car manufacturer Hugh Chalmers introduces the concept of an “MVP” to baseball. The winners, one from each league, would be awarded with a new car.
1948
Athletic’s manager Connie Mack (84-years-old) and Washington Senators owner Clark Griffith (78) face off in a race from third to home.
1968
After the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., the MLB and its players agreed to suspend opening day until his funeral took place five days later.
1974
With a home run off Cincinnati Reds pitcher, and former Astro, Jack Billingham, Hank Aaron ties Babe Ruth’s all-time home run record of 714.
1989
After making an appearance on opening day, Yankees pitcher Tommy John officially breaks the MLB’s record for the most seasons played, participating in his 26th season in the league.
1999
The first opening day outside of the US or Canada takes place when the Colorado Rockie and San Diego Pared face off in Monterrey, Mexico.