Today in Baseball History: June 17th

1987 On June 17, 1987, former Kansas City Royals manager Dick Howser dies from brain cancer at the age of 51. The popular Howser, who led the Royals to the 1985 World Championship, fell ill during the 1986 season. He attempted to return to managing in the spring of '87, only to give up the comeback because of his weakened condition.

1978 On June 17, 1978, Ron Guidry of the New York Yankees sets an American League record for most strikeouts by a left-handed pitcher in a single game. Guidry strikes out 18 California Angels in picking up a 4-0 win-his 11th consecutive victory without a loss…

1962 On June 17, 1962, Chicago Cubs outfielder Lou Brock hits a 460-foot home run into the right field bleachers at the Polo Grounds. Known more for his speed than power, Brock becomes only the second player to reach that section of seats at the Polo Grounds.

1960 On June 17, 1960, Ted Williams becomes the fourth major league player to hit his 500th home run, joining Babe Ruth, Jimmie Foxx, and Mel Ott. Williams' two-run shot helps the Boston Red Sox to a 3-1 win over the Cleveland Indians.

1956 On June 17, 1956, Milwaukee Braves slugger Joe Adcock becomes the only player to hit a home run onto the roof of Ebbets Field. Adcock blasts three home runs during the doubleheader sweep of the Brooklyn Dodgers. Adcock will go on to hit 13 career home runs at Ebbets Field, more than any other visiting player.

1943 On June 17, 1943, Boston Red Sox player-manager Joe Cronin inserts himself as a pinch-hitter in both games of a doubleheader. The future Hall of Famer hits three-run home runs each time to the plate. The Red Sox win the first game, 5-4, but fall in the nightcap, 8-7.

1936 On June 17, 1936, Charles "Red" Ruffing of the New York Yankees sets an American League record for pitchers by piling up 10 total bases. The Hall of Fame hurler hits two home runs as part of a four-hit day, helping the Yankees to a 15-4 crushing of the Cleveland Indians.

1935 On June 17, 1935, Commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis rules that Alabama Pitts, a black player, may suit up for the Albany Senators of the International League. Landis' ruling stipulates that Pitts may play only in regular season games, but not in exhibitions.

1931 On June 17, 1931, longtime umpire and future Hall of Famer Tommy Connolly announces his retirement. Connolly, who had worked the first game in American League history in 1901, will become the supervisor of AL umpires.