What happened today in team history?
1965 – Broadcast from the sky
During the Houston Astros 12-9 loss to the New York Mets, broadcaster Lindsay Nelson called the game from a gondola located at the top of the Astrodome, 200+ feet in the air. The umpires of the game tell the managers beforehand that any ball that hits him will remain in play and can still be recorded as an out if caught.
1984 – Accidental behind the scenes
During a game between the Astros and Atlanta Braves that was being covered by NBC, a microphone gets left on the field and catches arguments between the Astros catcher and umpires, resulting in profanity being used and aired. NBC received a mountain of complaints following this.
What else happened on this day?
1929
Due to Fenway Park’s proximity to a church, Sunday games have usually been played at Commonwealth Park, but in their first Sunday game played in Fenway, the Boston Red Sox lost 7 – 3 to the Philadelphia Athletics.
1950
While playing catcher for the Pampa Oilers’, Jim Martin is struck by lightning behind the plate, knocking him unconscious. He still, somehow, returned to the lineup the next day.
1979
Indiana State basketball star Larry Bird suits up for his first baseball game of the season, going 1-2 at the plate and recording a putout at first.
1988
The Baltimore Orioles establish a new AL record, blowing a lead against the Minnesota Twins to lose their 21-straight game. This record would stand until the 2024 Chicago White Sox tied it themselves.