Today in White Sox History: A Day of Records, Brawls, and Triumphs
The White Sox have had a rich and eventful history, with many memorable moments that have shaped the franchise. From record-breaking crowds to on-field brawls and thrilling victories, here's a look at some of the most notable events that occurred on June 20th throughout the years.
1926: Breaking Records and Winning Games
On June 20, 1926, the White Sox played against the Yankees at Comiskey Park, setting a record for the largest crowd to attend a game before the upper deck was added in 1927. An astonishing 43,000 fans packed the stadium, and their enthusiasm contributed to the team's eventual win. In the eighth inning, Willie Kamm's hit went into the crowd, resulting in a double and the go-ahead run for Earl Sheely. This game showcased the power of fan support and the unique atmosphere of Comiskey Park.
1945: A Brawl in St. Louis
In a game against the Browns, a brawl erupted in the eighth inning. Pitcher George Caster's throw towards the Chicago dugout missed its target and hit the wall. This triggered a confrontation between White Sox players and the Browns, who charged the dugout. The incident escalated as they attacked Karl Scheel, a White Sox batting practice pitcher and ex-Marine. The game resumed after the disturbance, and the White Sox emerged victorious, 4-1. This incident highlights the intense and sometimes volatile nature of baseball during that era.
1959: Doubleheader Struggles and Future Success
The White Sox suffered a doubleheader sweep at Boston, losing 8-2 and 9-0. This setback dropped them to fourth place in the AL. However, the team's resilience was evident as they bounced back. A win on June 21 would have brought them back to second place, and they indeed finished the season in the top spot. This period showcases the team's ability to overcome challenges and their journey towards future glory.
1973: Breaking New Rules
White Sox relief pitcher Cy Acosta made history by becoming the first American League pitcher to bat in the designated hitter era. He struck out in the eighth inning of a win over the Angels. This unique occurrence was a result of a strategic move by manager Chuck Tanner, who adjusted the lineup to accommodate the new rule. Acosta's plate appearance marked a significant moment in baseball history.
1977: A Promising Player's Setback
Kevin Bell, a highly touted prospect, suffered a devastating knee injury while sliding into home plate. Bell, drafted in 1973, had shown great potential with an impressive OPS in the minor leagues. However, this injury cut short his star-studded career, as he was never able to reach his full potential. Despite the loss, the White Sox remained competitive, tying for first place in the AL West.
1980: A Violent Encounter on the Field
In a game against the Tigers, outfielder Al Cowens attacked Sox relief pitcher Ed Farmer. Cowens, who had a history of conflict with Farmer, ran towards him after hitting a ground ball. The brawl that ensued led to Farmer's kidneys weakening due to a burst cyst. This incident highlights the physical and emotional toll of baseball, as well as the importance of maintaining control on the field.
1986: A Manager's Firing and Future Glory
White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf made a controversial decision to fire manager Tony La Russa. The tension between La Russa and new GM Ken Harrelson led to this abrupt change. However, La Russa's impact on the team's success cannot be overstated. He won over 500 games and led the White Sox to the Western Division championship in 1983. La Russa's legacy continued with his success in Oakland and St. Louis, where he won multiple World Series titles.
2006: A Record-Breaking Inning
The White Sox set a team record by scoring 20 runs in the third inning against the Cardinals. Mark Mulder, a Chicago-area native, was on the receiving end of this onslaught. The Sox's offensive explosion resulted in a 20-6 victory. This game showcased the team's power-hitting ability and their ability to put up runs in a single inning.
2009: Civil Rights Game Victory
The White Sox won the first Civil Rights Game, played as part of the regular season. They rallied from a 5-0 deficit to beat the Cincinnati Reds, 10-8. The game honored the Civil Rights Era, with both teams wearing 1965 replica uniforms. The White Sox's victory in this significant game demonstrated their commitment to social justice and equality.
2010: A Successful Road Trip
The White Sox finished a road trip with an impressive 8-1 win-loss record, tied for the seventh-best in franchise history. They took two of three games at Wrigley Field and swept three-game sets in Pittsburgh and Washington. This road trip brought them back to a .500 record and set the stage for a successful homestand, where they won 11 straight games and 26 of 31 overall.
In conclusion, June 20th has been a significant day in White Sox history, marked by records, brawls, and triumphs. From breaking attendance records to on-field confrontations and thrilling victories, these events have shaped the franchise's legacy. The White Sox's ability to overcome challenges and celebrate victories continues to inspire fans and baseball enthusiasts alike.
