Today in Baseball History: February 13th

1995 On February 13, 1995, the Los Angeles Dodgers sign Japanese pitching star Hideo Nomo to a contract that includes a $2 million signing bonus. Nomo won 78 games for the Kintetsu Buffaloes over the past four seasons. Nomo will become the National League's Rookie of the Year in 1996.

1985 On February 13, 1985, the New York Yankees re-acquire catcher Ron Hassey from the Chicago White Sox in a seven-player trade. Hassey, who had been traded to Chicago only two months earlier, returns to New York along with three minor leaguers for pitcher Neil Allen, catcher Scott Bradley, and minor league outfielder Glen Braxton.

1974 On February 13, 1974, James "Cool Papa" Bell is elected to the Hall of Fame. Known for his legendary footspeed, Bell joins Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson, Buck Leonard, and Monte Irvin as Negro Leagues greats selected to the Hall.

1968 On February 13, 1968, the Los Angeles Dodgers trade infielders Ron Hunt and Nate Oliver to the San Francisco Giants for catcher Tom Haller and pitcher Frank Kasheta. Haller will hit .285 as the Dodgers' regular catcher in 1968.

1953 On February 13, 1953, the Philadelphia A's change the name of Shibe Park to Connie Mack Stadium, in honor of their longtime owner and manager. Mack was part-owner and manager of the franchise for a record 50 years. Connie Mack Stadium will remain in existence until 1970, when it is torn down and replaced by Veterans Stadium.

1920 On February 13, 1920, officials organize the Negro National League in a meeting held at the YMCA in Kansas City, Missouri. Spearheaded by league founder Rube Foster, the Negro National League will become the most successful of all Negro Leagues ventures and will last until the late 1940s.