Today in Baseball History: January 20th

1984 On January 20, 1984, the Chicago White Sox claim Tom Seaver from the New York Mets as compensation for the loss of free agent pitcher Dennis Lamp. The 39-year-old Seaver won only nine games in 1983, but will improve to 15-11 with the White Sox.

1984 On January 20, 1984, the Montreal Expos sign 42-year-old free agent Pete Rose. The veteran first baseman batted only .245 in 1983, the last of his five seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies. Rose will play only 95 games for the Expos before being traded to the Cincinnati Reds.

1965 On January 20, 1965, the Cleveland Indians re-acquire popular slugger Rocky Colavito from the Chicago White Sox in a three-way deal involving the Kansas City Athletics. In the deal, the Indians surrender pitcher Tommy John and outfielder Tommie Agee. In 1960, Cleveland had traded Colavito to Detroit for Harvey Kuenn, drawing the wrath of Indian fans.

1947 On January 20, 1947, former Negro Leagues legend Josh Gibson dies from a brain tumor at the age of 35. Considered by many to be the greatest home run hitter in the history of the Negro leagues, Gibson will eventually gain election to the Hall of Fame in 1972, when he is selected by the Special Committee on the Negro leagues.

1931 On January 20, 1931, the New York Yankees sign future Hall of Famer Joe Sewell. The former star shortstop batted .289 for the Indians in 1930 before drawing his release.

1871 On January 20, 1871, the first franchise in the yet-to-be formed National Association is born. The Boston Red Stockings, the league's charter franchise, will be managed by future Hall of Famer Harry Wright. Two months later, the National Association of Baseball Players will officially open for business.