Today in Baseball History: November 8th

1979 On November 8, 1979, the New York Yankees sign two veteran free agents to long-term contracts: first baseman Bob "The Bull" Watson and pitcher Rudy May. The two veterans will help the Yankees to an American League-leading 103 wins in 1980.

1977 On November 8, 1977, Hall of Fame manager Stanley "Bucky" Harris dies on his 81st birthday. Harris won two World Championships and three American League pennants over a 29-year career with the Washington Senators and New York Yankees.

1977 On November 8, 1977, George Foster of the Cincinnati Reds is named the National League's Most Valuable Player. The slugging left fielder, part of Cincinnati's explosive "Big Red Machine," led the National League in home runs with 52 and in RBIs with 149.

1966 On November 8, 1966, Frank Robinson of the Baltimore Orioles is named the American League's MVP in a unanimous vote. Robinson, the Triple Crown winner with a .316 average, 49 home runs, and 122 RBIs, becomes the first player to win the MVP award in both leagues.

1961 On November 8, 1961, future Hall of Famers Whitey Ford and Warren Spahn finish first and second, respectively, in one of the closest votes in Cy Young Award history. Ford, with nine points, wins the award over Spahn, who totals six points.

1954 On November 8, 1954, American League owners approve the move of the Philadelphia Athletics to Kansas City. The vote is 6-2 in favor. The transplanted A's will play home games at Municipal Stadium, which will be expanded from 17,000 to 36,000 seats.