Today in Baseball History: January 26th

1963 On January 26, 1963, Major League Baseball's Rules Committee increases the size of the strike zone. The zone will stretch from the top of the batter's shoulders to the bottom of the knees. The committee hopes the return to the 1950s strike zone will result in a decrease in runs scored.

1962 On January 26, 1962, New York Yankee stars Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle sign contracts to appear in the movie Safe at Home. The movie will star Maris and Mantle as themselves and feature cameos by Whitey Ford and Ralph Houk.

1960 On January 26, 1960, Boston Red Sox outfielder Jackie Jensen announces his retirement, only months after enjoying one of his best seasons-28 home runs, 112 RBIs, and a .277 average. Jensen's fear of flying plays a part in his decision to leave the game. In 1961, Jensen will return to the Sox before retiring once again.

1932 On January 26, 1932, Chicago Cubs owner William Wrigley dies at the age of 70 in Phoenix, Arizona. Wrigley had owned the team since 1919. Wrigley's son Philip inherits controlling interest in both the Cubs and the minor league Los Angeles Angels of the Pacific Coast League.

1930 On January 26, 1930, Carl Mays signs a contract with Portland of the Pacific Coast League, thus foregoing his major league career. In 1920, a Mays fastball had struck Ray Chapman in the head. The impact of the blow killed the Cleveland Indians' shortstop.

1919 On January 26, 1919, the St. Louis Cardinals name team president Branch Rickey as manager, replacing Jack Hendricks. Under Rickey's leadership, the last-place Cardinals will improve only slightly in the standings, finishing seventh in 1919.