Today in Baseball History: December 17th

1992 On December 17, 1992, the Minnesota Twins sign hometown native Dave Winfield to a free agent contract. The veteran designated hitter-outfielder helped the Toronto Blue Jays to the World Championship in 1992. In Game Seven of the World Series, Winfield delivered the game-winning run with an extra-inning double.

1975 On December 17, 1975, Chicago White Sox owner Bill Veeck hires long-time friend Paul Richards as manager. Under Richards, the ChiSox will struggle to a record of 64-97, putting them in last place in the American League West.

1935 On December 17, 1935, the Boston Red Sox acquire future Hall of Famer Heinie Manush from the Washington Senators for outfielders Roy Johnson and Carl Reynolds. A .273 hitter in 1935, the left-handed hitting Manush will bat .291 in 82 games for the Red Sox in 1936…

1932 On December 17, 1932, the Cincinnati Reds acquire future Hall of Famer Jim Bottomley from the St. Louis Cardinals for outfielder Estel Crabtree and pitcher Owen Carroll. "Sunny Jim" batted .296 for St. Louis, but hit only 11 home runs and drove in 48 runs in 91 games.

1920 On December 17, 1920, the American League votes to allow all existing spitball pitchers to continue throwing the "illegal" pitch. The National League will soon follow suit. Earlier, both leagues had voted to ban the spitter for all other pitchers.

1903 On December 17, 1903, American League owners meet in Chicago, where they decide to institute a 154-game regular season schedule. The 154-game docket will remain in effect until 1961, when the AL expands from eight to 10 teams and introduces a 162-game season.