Today in Baseball History: March 20th

2006 On March 20, 2006, Japan scores four runs in the first inning and hangs on to defeat Cuba in the championship game of the first World Baseball Classic. The tournament, featuring teams from 16 nations, draws large crowds and proves a major success for international baseball.

1989 On March 20, 1989, Commissioner Peter Ueberroth announces that he has begun an investigation into the behavior of Cincinnati Reds manager Pete Rose. Ueberroth doesn't identify the allegations against Rose, but the Reds' skipper will eventually be banished for his alleged involvement with gambling.

1984 On March 20, 1984, Hall of Fame pitcher Stan Coveleski dies at the age of 94. Coveleski won 215 games over a 14-year career, which included five 20-win seasons.

1973 On March 20, 1973, Roberto Clemente becomes the first Latin American to gain election to the Hall of Fame. The Baseball Writers Association of America announces the results of a special ballot, with Clemente receiving 393 of 424 votes. Clemente was killed in a New Year's Eve plane crash two and a half months earlier.

1958 On March 20, 1958, the Philadelphia Phillies acquire veteran first baseman Joe Collins from the New York Yankees. Opting not to report to the Phillies' spring training camp, Collins decides to retire, thereby canceling the deal.

1943 On March 20, 1943, the Washington Senators acquire veteran outfielder Bob Johnson from the Philadelphia A's for outfielder-third baseman Bobby Estalella and infielder Jimmy Pofahl. A member of the A's since 1933, Johnson will bat a mediocre .265 with only seven home runs in his lone season with the Senators.

1937 On March 20, 1937, the Homestead Grays of the Negro Leagues acquire future Hall of Famers Josh Gibson and Judy Johnson for $2,500 in cash and a pair of journeymen players. The trade is considered the largest transaction in the history of the Negro Leagues.