Today in Baseball History: May 21st

2000 On May 21, 2000, a major league record six grand slams are hit on the same day. Anaheim Angels outfielder Garret Anderson hits the record-breaker, connecting in the Angels' 10-6 loss to the Kansas City Royals. The previous record of five grand slams had been set just one year earlier.

1977 On May 21, 1977, journeyman outfielder Merv Rettenmund hits a three-run homer in the 21st inning to lift the San Diego Padres to an 11-8 win over the Montreal Expos. The home run is one of only four that Rettenmund will hit during the season.

1963 On May 21, 1963, Jim Maloney of the Cincinnati Reds ties the National League record for most consecutive strikeouts in a game. Maloney fans eight Milwaukee Braves in a row and finishes with a total of 16 strikeouts in a 2-0 win.

1952 On May 21, 1952, the Brooklyn Dodgers put together an amazing first-inning rally. After one man is retired, 19 consecutive Dodgers reach base, including shortstop Harold "Pee Wee" Reese, who reaches three times, and Duke Snider, who homers. The Dodgers score 15 runs on their way to a 19-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds.

1940 On May 21, 1940, future Hall of Famer Jimmie Foxx of the Boston Red Sox hits a grand slam home run for the second consecutive day. Foxx's grand slam proves decisive, as the Red Sox defeat the Detroit Tigers, 11-8…

1936 On May 21, 1936, the Philadelphia Phillies re-acquire future Hall of Famer Chuck Klein from the Chicago Cubs. The Phillies send outfielder Ethan Allen and pitcher Curt Davis to Chicago for Klein, pitcher Fabian Kowalik, and an estimated $50,000 in cash.

1930 On May 21, 1930, New York Yankees slugger Babe Ruth slams three home runs in the first game of a doubleheader against the Philadelphia A's. The 35-year-old "Bambino" adds another blast in the second game to finish the day with four home runs.

1919 On May 21, 1919, the New York Giants sell two-sport star Jim Thorpe to the Boston Braves for the waiver price of $1,500. Thorpe, a 32-year-old Native American and standout football player, will bat .327 for the Braves, but will retire from baseball after the season…

1902 On May 21, 1902, future Hall of Famer Earl Averill is born in Snohomish, Washington. "The Earl of Snohomish," who will make his major league debut in 1929 with the Cleveland Indians, will bat .318 over a 13-year career with the Indians, Detroit Tigers, and Boston Braves.