Today in Baseball History: November 18th

1987 On November 18, 1987, Andre "The Hawk" Dawson of the Chicago Cubs becomes the first player from a last-place team to win the Most Valuable Player Award. Dawson led the National League with 49 HR and 137 RBIs.

1981 On November 18, 1981, future Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt wins his second straight MVP Award. Schmidt becomes only the third player in National League history to win back-to-back MVPs. Ernie Banks and Joe Morgan also won the award in consecutive seasons.

1970 On November 18, 1970, Cincinnati Reds catcher Johnny Bench wins the National League's MVP Award. Bench, who totaled 45 home runs and 148 RBIs, easily outdistances Chicago Cubs star Billy Williams in the balloting…

1966 On November 18, 1966, Los Angeles Dodgers pitching ace Sandy Koufax announces his retirement, due to increasing pain caused by arthritis in his left elbow. Just three weeks earlier, Koufax had won a record third Cy Young Award.

1963 On November 18, 1963, the Detroit Tigers trade outfielder Rocky Colavito and pitcher Bob Anderson to the Kansas City A's for second baseman Jerry Lumpe and two pitchers. Colavito will hit 34 home runs and drive in 102 runs for the A's in 1964…

1954 On November 18, 1954, the New York Yankees and Baltimore Orioles pull off a mammoth nine-player deal. The Yankees acquire pitchers Don Larsen and Bob Turley and infielder Billy Hunter for six players, including catcher Gus Triandos, shortstop Willie Miranda, and outfielder Gene Woodling…