Today in Baseball History: December 27th

2003 On December 27, 2003, former outfielder Ivan Calderon, 41, is shot to death in Loiza, Puerto Rico. Two gunmen entered a store and shot him in the back, killing Calderon, who played 10 seasons and hit 104 homers in a career that ended in 1993.

1995 On December 27, 1995, Hall of Fame umpire Al Barlick dies at the age of 80 in Springfield, Illinois. Known for his decisiveness and hustle, Barlick worked National League games from 1940 to 1972, and gained election to Cooperstown in 1989.

1984 On December 27, 1984, the New York Yankees sign free agent Ed Whitson to a five-year contract worth nearly $4.5 million. Whitson, who went 14-8 for the San Diego Padres, will regret his decision to play in the Bronx. In 1986, Whitson will struggle so badly at Yankee Stadium that manager Lou Piniella will refuse to use him in home games.

1967 On December 27, 1967, Boston Red Sox star Jim Lonborg undergoes surgery on his left knee, four days after a skiing accident. Lonborg, who won a career-high 22 games for the Red Sox during their "Impossible Dream" season, will struggle to regain his pitching form.