Today in Baseball History: September 8th

1998 On September 8, 1998, Mark McGwire of the St. Louis Cardinals breaks what is arguably the game's most prestigious single-season record: Roger Maris' mark of 61 home runs. McGwire hits his 62nd home run against Steve Trachsel in the fourth inning of a 6-3 win over the Chicago Cubs. After the game, McGwire presents his uniform, along with the bat and ball from the 62nd home run, to the Hall of Fame…

1995 On September 8, 1995, the Cleveland Indians clinch a post-season berth faster than any team in history. With a 3-2 win over the Baltimore Orioles, the Indians wrap up the AL Central in only their 123rd game…

1985 On September 8, 1985, Pete Rose of the Cincinnati Reds collects two singles against Chicago Cubs right-hander Reggie Patterson to tie Ty Cobb for the most hits in major league history. Rose will break Cobb's record three days later.

1965 On September 8, 1965, Bert Campaneris of the Kansas City A's becomes the first major leaguer to play all nine positions in a game. Campy accomplishes the unusual feat, which was prompted by A's' owner Charlie Finley, during a 5-3 loss to the California Angels. Usually a shortstop, Campy catches the ninth inning and is knocked from the game after a collision with Ed Kirkpatrick.

1963 On September 8, 1963, Warren Spahn of the Milwaukee Braves ties Hall of Famer Christy Mathewson by notching his 13th 20-win season. Spahn defeats the Philadelphia Phillies, 3-2…

1958 On September 8, 1958, Roberto Clemente of the Pittsburgh Pirates ties a modern day record by collecting three triples in a game against the Cincinnati Reds. Clemente's outburst helps the Pirates to a 4-1 win.

1953 On September 8, 1953, the Chicago Cubs make one of the best transactions in franchise history, purchasing infielder Ernie Banks from the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues. The Cubs surrender a mere $10,000 for Banks, who will hit 512 home runs over a 19-year major league career…

1916 On September 8, 1916, Wally Schang of the Philadelphia Athletics becomes the first major league player to hit home runs from both sides of the plate in the same game. Schang will finish the season with only seven home runs…

1907 On September 8, 1907, future Hall of Famer Walter "Buck" Leonard is born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Leonard will make his professional baseball debut in 1933, when he signs a contract with the Brooklyn Royal Giants of the Negro Leagues.