Today in Baseball History: January 21st

1993 On January 21, 1993, Hall of Fame second baseman Charlie Gehringer dies at the age of 89, one month after suffering a stroke. During a 19-year career with the Detroit Tigers, Gehringer batted .320 with 184 home runs. In 1937, Gehringer enjoyed arguably his finest season, batting a league-leading .371.

1960 On January 21, 1960, future Hall of Famer Stan Musial makes an unusual request - asking for a pay cut. Musial tells St. Louis Cardinals management that he is overpaid and should have his salary reduced after a subpar 1959 season.

1953 On January 21, 1953, pitcher Dizzy Dean and outfielder Al Simmons are elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame. The Baseball Writers' Association of America surprisingly bypasses former New York Yankees great Joe DiMaggio in his first year on the Hall of Fame ballot. DiMaggio will gain election two years later.

1938 On January 21, 1938, future Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio begins a contract holdout that will last for nearly three months. After meeting with New York Yankee owner Jacob Ruppert and general manager Ed Barrow, DiMaggio rejects a one-year offer of $25,000. DiMaggio counters by asking for $45,000. The holdout will last until April 20, two days after the start of the season.

1933 On January 21, 1933, the Pittsburgh Pirates sign future Hall of Fame pitcher Waite Hoyt. On November 29, the New York Giants had waived the veteran right-hander. Hoyt will pitch well for the Pirates, compiling a 2.92 ERA in 117 innings.