Today in Baseball History: December 19th

 

 

1991 On December 19, 1991, the Toronto Blue Jays sign free agent outfielder-designated hitter Dave Winfield, who had 28 home runs and 86 RBIs for the California Angels. In 1992, Winfield will deliver the game-winning hit for the Blue Jays in the seventh game of the World Series…

1983 On December 19, 1983, the Detroit Tigers sign free agent infielder Darrell Evans, who hit 30 home runs for the San Francisco Giants this past season. Evans" slugging and clubhouse leadership will help the Tigers win the World Championship in 1984. In 1985, atb the age of 38, Evans will win the American League home run crown, with 40 longballs.

1983 On December 19, 1983, the Pittsburgh Pirates sign outfielder Amos Otis as a free agent. A five-time All-Star with the Kansas City Royals, the aging Otis will bat only .165 in 40 games for the Pirates.

1934 On December 19, 1934, future Hall of Famer Al Kaline is born in Baltimore, Maryland. An outstanding right fielder, Kaline will collect 3,007 hits and 399 home runs during a 22-year career with the Detroit Tigers. In the 1968 World Series, Kaline batted .379 with 11 hits and two home runs.

1934 On December 19, 1934, the New York Yankees send five players to the San Francisco Seals of the Pacific Coast League as partial compensation for the acquisition of Joe DiMaggio. The Yankees had previously paid $25,000 for the future Hall of Famer. "Joe D." will play one more season in the PCL before reporting to the Yankees in 1936. In '36, DiMaggio will hit .323 with 125 RBIs in helping the Yankees to the championship.

1928 On December 19, 1928, the Tigers acquire player-manager Bucky Harris from the Washington Senators for infielder Jack Warner. Harris replaces George Moriarty as Detroit's skipper.