Today in Baseball History: March 24th

1995 On March 24, 1995, Atlanta Braves replacement player Dave Shothoski is shot and killed during spring training. The 30-year-old pitcher becomes an innocent victim of an apparent robbery attempt.

1984 On March 24, 1984, the Detroit Tigers acquire reliever Willie Hernandez and first baseman Dave Bergman from the Philadelphia Phillies for catcher John Wockenfuss and outfielder Glenn Wilson. Hernandez will win the American League's MVP Award after saving 32 games. Hernandez' brilliant pitching will help Detroit to the World Championship.

1982 On March 24, 1982, Fernando Valenzuela ends his holdout and reports to spring training. Valenzuela had asked for a $1 million deal before the Los Angeles Dodgers automatically renewed his contract. In 1981, Valenzuela captured the National League's Rookie of the Year Award.

1973 On March 24, 1973, the Cleveland Indians trade former All-Star catcher Ray Fosse to the Oakland A's for outfielder George Hendrick and catcher Dave Duncan. Fosse was once considered an untouchable before a serious injury suffered during a 1970 All-Star Game collision with Pete Rose.

1961 On March 24, 1961, the New York Senate approves $55 million in funding for a new stadium to be built in Queens. The park will be called Shea Stadium. After playing their first two seasons in the Polo Grounds, the Mets will move to Shea in 1964.

1911 On March 24, 1911, the president of the St. Louis Cardinals, Matthew Stanley Robison, dies unexpectedly and leaves ownership of the team to his niece. Helene Hathaway Britton becomes the first female owner in major league history.