Today in Baseball History: October 19th

1987 On October 19, 1987, the New York Yankees hire controversial manager Billy Martin for a fifth time. Martin succeeds Lou Piniella, who is named the Yankees' general manager in their latest restructuring.

1981 On October 19, 1981, Rick Monday hits a home run in the ninth inning to lead the Los Angeles Dodgers over the Montreal Expos in the fifth game of the National League Championship Series. The win sends the Dodgers to the World Series against the New York Yankees.

1978 On October 19, 1978, the Chicago White Sox fire Larry Doby, the second black manager in major league history. The Sox name veteran shortstop Don Kessinger player-manager...

1972 On October 19, 1972, the Oakland A's stage a dramatic comeback to win Game Four of the World Series against the Cincinnati Reds. Trailing 2-1 in the ninth inning, the A's string together four consecutive hits, including three by pinch-hitters Gonzalo Marquez, Don Mincher, and Angel Mangual, who provides the game-winning run with an opposite-field single.

1949 On October 19, 1949, the Chicago White Sox make one of the best trades in franchise history. The "Pale Hose" acquire future Hall of Fame second baseman Nellie Fox for backup catcher Joe Tipton. Fox will win the MVP award in 1950…

1946 On October 19, 1946, the New York Yankees acquire pitcher Allie Reynolds from the Cleveland Indians for former American League MVP Joe Gordon and third baseman Eddie Bockman. Reynolds had struggled with Cleveland, losing 15 of 16 decisions during the 1946 season. Reynolds will reverse his fortunes in 1947, winning 19 games for the world champion Yankees…