What happened today in team history?
1975 – Ricky Stone is born
In Hamilton, Ohio, Ricky Stone was born on this day. The right handed pitcher spent four of his seven years in the majors with the Astros where he compiled a 3.80 ERA in 165 games, 46 being closes, and two saves. Stone started his career off hot with the Astros before being released mid-season in 2004 and claimed by the San Diego Padres.
1986 – Three former Astros suspended
Following a drug dealing trial that took place, three former Astros, Joaquin Andujar, Enos Cabell and Jeff Leonard, are among the 11 players that were suspended by commissioner Peter Ueberroth. The players all returned after agreeing to fines, community service and random drug tests.
1997 – Larry Dierker debut
In his first game as the new manager for the Astros, Larry Dierker’s team delivers a 8-2 loss to the Cleveland Indians. Dierker coached the team till 2001 where he won 448 games and was named the N.L. Manager of the Year in 1998 after leading the team to over 100 wins and helping them win the NL Central.
2017 – New Spring Training grounds open
After spending the last 21 seasons in Cocoa, Florida, the Astros opened their new Spring Training grounds in West Palm Beach, Florida. Their first game in the new facility was against the Nationals, where they lost 4-3.
What else happened on this day?
1968
The founder of the rubbing mud that is used by players and umpires around the league, Lena Blackburne, passes away and left the company to his lifelong friend John Haas, who has kept the company in his family to this day.