Today in Baseball History: July 26th

1987 On July 26, 1987, the Hall of Fame expands by three members. Jim "Catfish" Hunter, Billy Williams, and Ray Dandridge are honored in Induction Ceremonies in Cooperstown. Hunter played on five world champions

1987 On July 26, 1987, Negro league star Ray Dandridge is honored in Induction Ceremonies in Cooperstown. Dandridge was one of the finest fielding third basemen in history, and once hit in 44 straight games in the Mexican League.

1978 On July 26, 1978, Johnny Bench of the Cincinnati Reds collects his 300th career home run in a 12-3 loss to the New York Mets. In the same game, Cincinnati's Pete Rose extends his hitting streak to 39 games. Rose's streak will eventually reach 44 games - a new National League record.

1970 On July 26, 1970, Orlando Cepeda of the Atlanta Braves and Johnny Bench of the Cincinnati Reds each hit three consecutive home runs and collect seven RBIs in games against the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals, respectively. Bench blasts his home runs against another future Hall of Famer, Steve Carlton.

1948 On July 26, 1948, Babe Ruth makes his final public appearance. Ruth visits the film premiere of "The Babe Ruth Story." Ruth will succumb to throat cancer only three weeks later.

1939 On July 26, 1939, the New York Yankees tie a major league record by scoring in every inning against the St. Louis Browns. Hall of Famer Bill Dickey hits three home runs as part of the 14-1 win.

1933 On July 26, 1933, Rogers Hornsby signs a three-year contract as player/manager of the St. Louis Browns. Hornsby had just cleared waivers after being released one day earlier by the St. Louis Cardinals. Hornsby will manage the Browns until 1937.