Today in Baseball History: February 18th

2001 On February 18, 2001, Hall of Famer Eddie Mathews dies at the age of 69, succumbing to respiratory failure caused by pneumonia. Born in 1931 at Texarkana, Texas, Mathews made his major league debut for the Boston Braves in 1952 and quickly established himself as a powerful threat from the left side, teaming with Hank Aaron to form a devastating duo in the middle of the Braves' order. The only man to play for the Braves in Boston, Milwaukee, and Atlanta, Mathews concluded his career in 1968, participating in the Detroit Tigers' World Series victory over St. Louis.

1998 On February 18, 1998, famed broadcaster Harry Caray dies of complications caused by a stroke. He was either 78 or 81, according to different sources. One of the game's most colorful figures, Caray announced St. Louis Cardinals games from 1947 to 1969 and then worked for the Oakland A's and Chicago White Sox before gaining his most rabid following with the Chicago Cubs.

1954 On February 18, 1954, the Washington Senators acquire slugging outfielder-first baseman Roy Sievers from the Baltimore Orioles for outfielder Gil Coan. Sievers, who had struggled over his past four seasons, will blossom for Washington in 1954, hitting 24 home runs and driving in 102 runs.

1946 On February 18, 1946, Danny Gardella of the Detroit Tigers signs a one-year contract with Veracruz of the Mexican League. The signing marks the beginning of the Mexican League's raid on major league talent. Gardella signs for a salary of $8,000 and a $5,000 bonus.

1944 On February 18, 1944, 15-year-old high school star Joe Nuxhall signs a professional contract with the Cincinnati Reds' organization. Nuxhall will become the youngest player to appear in a major league game when he debuts for the Reds in 1944-at the age of 15 years and 10 months.

1922 On February 18, 1922, the Cincinnati Reds trade future Hall of Famer Rube Marquard and shortstop Larry Kopf to the Boston Braves for pitcher Jack Scott. Marquard, a 17-game winner in 1921, will fall to 11-15 in for the Braves in 1922.

1909 On February 18, 1909, the Boston Red Sox trade Cy Young to the Cleveland Naps for pitchers Charlie Chech and Jack Ryan and $12,500. Young, who won 21 games for the Sox at age 41, will win 19 games for the Naps.

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— Gustavo Hidalgo E (@Beisbol007) febrero 17, 2014