Today in Baseball History: December 23rd

1995 On December 23, 1995, the St. Louis Cardinals sign a pair of free agents: outfielder Ron Gant and pitcher Andy Benes. Gant hit 29 home runs and stole 23 bases for the Cincinnati Reds, and Benes won 11 games while splitting his season between San Diego and Seattle. Benes will join younger brother Alan in St. Louis' rotation.

1981 On December 23, 1981, the New York Yankees sign outfielder-first baseman Dave Collins to a free agent contract. Collins, who stole 79 bases for the Cincinnati Reds in 1979, will end up a bust in New York and will be traded after one season.

1975 On December 23, 1975, arbitrator Peter Seitz declares  Andy Messersmith and Dave McNally free agents. Both pitchers sat out the option years of their contracts in the hopes they would become free to sign with any team. Messersmith will sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers, while McNally opted for retirement. Seitz's decision will lead to an agreement with the owners, whereby all players will become eligible for free agency after six seasons.

1958 On December 23, 1958, the Philadelphia Phillies acquire infielder Sparky Anderson from the Los Angeles Dodgers for outfielder Rip Repulski and two other players. Anderson won't do much as a player, but will win three World Championships as a manager.

1953 On December 23, 1953, James "Junior" Gilliam of the Brooklyn Dodgers wins the National League's Rookie of the Year Award. Gilliam, who led the NL with 17 triples, beats out Pittsburgh Pirates left-hander Harvey Haddix.

1905 On December 23, 1905, the Philadelphia A's sell veteran third baseman Lave Cross to the Washington Senators. Cross had spent the last five seasons with the A's.