Today in Baseball History: December 8th

2006 On December 8, 2006, former shortstop Jose Uribe is killed in a car crash in his native Dominican Republic. The 47 year old Uribe had spent ten seasons in the majors, mostly with the Giants. His untimely death prompts thousands, including Angels outfielder Vlad Guerrero, to parade the streets of Santo Domingo in his memory.

1992 On December 8, 1992, the San Francisco Giants sign free agent Barry Bonds to a record-setting contract. Bonds, coming off a .311 season with 34 home runs and 39 stolen bases, signs a six-year deal worth nearly $44 million. The contract makes Bonds the highest paid player in baseball.

1985 On December 8, 1985, Bill Wambsganss, who turned an unassisted triple play for the Indians in the 1920 World Series, died in Lakewood, Ohio. He was 91 years old.

1984 On December 8, 1984, the New York Yankees acquire the game's premier leadoff man. New York trades five players, including pitchers Jose Rijo and Jay Howell, to the Oakland A's for All-Star Rickey Henderson, who stole a league-leading 66 bases in 1984…

1977 On December 8, 1977, the New York Mets, Texas Rangers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Atlanta Braves complete an unusual four-team trade that involves 11 players. The Mets acquire first baseman Willie Montanez, the Rangers add outfielder Al Oliver, and the Pirates pick up pitcher Bert Blyleven and outfielder John Milner. In 1978, the Rangers will benefit most from the trade, as Oliver will bat .324 with 89 RBIs and Matlack will win 15 games.

1958 On December 8, 1958, Hall of Famer Tris Speaker dies from a heart attack at the age of 70. Regarded as a consummate defensive center fielder, Speaker batted .345 over a 22-year career, ranking him fifth on the all-time list. In 1920, he guided the Indians to the World Series title as player/manager.

1939 On December 8, 1939, Lou Gehrig gains election to the Hall of Fame in an unprecedented vote by acclamation. The writers agreed to waive the mandatory waiting period for the ailing Gehrig, recently stricken with ALS. Gehrig will die from the disease on June 2, 1941.

1914 On December 8, 1914, the Chicago White Sox purchase second baseman Eddie Collins from the Philadelphia A's for $50,000. A .300 hitter for six consecutive seasons, Collins will bat .332 for the Sox in 1915.