Today in Baseball History: March 21st

1988 On March 21, 1988, Hall of Fame outfielder Edd Roush dies at the age of 94. A two-time National League batting champion and a .323 hitter over an 18-year career, Roush entered the Hall of Fame in 1962.

1986 On March 21, 1986, the New York Yankees announce that off-season acquisition Britt Burns will not be able to pitch this season because of a deteriorating hip condition. Burns' hip will require replacement, ending his career.

1977 On March 21, 1977, Detroit Tigers pitching sensation Mark Fidrych tears cartilage in his left knee. The injury will require surgery, which will short-circuit the career of the 1976 American League Rookie of the Year. In 1976, Fidrych gained national attention for his strange gyrations and mannerisms on the mound, which earned him the nickname "The Bird."

1975 On March 21, 1975, Hall of Fame outfielder Joe "Ducky" Medwick dies at the age of 63. As one of the feared hitters on the famed "Gashouse Gang," Medwick clubbed 205 home runs and batted .324 over a 17-year career. Medwick gained election to the Hall of Fame in 1968.

1968 On March 21, 1968, one of the two American League expansion teams announces its nickname. The Kansas City franchise, now known as the "Royals," will begin play in 1969. Kansas City's last major league franchise, the Athletics, moved to Oakland after the 1967 season.

1962 On March 21, 1962, the Philadelphia Phillies retire Robin Roberts' uniform No. 36. The Phillies had sold Roberts to the Orioles after the 1961 season. Roberts spent 14 seasons in a Phillie uniform, winning 20 or more games from 1952 to 1955.