Baseball History Podcast

Joseph Edward Cronin was born October 12, 1906 in San Francisco, CA. For 14 years, Joe Cronin’s signature appeared on all the baseballs used in the American League. But a far more interesting tidbit about this former American League president is that he was once sold by his uncle-in-law – not his father-in-law, as is often reported.

Timothy Raines, nicknamed, “Rock”, was born September 16, 1959 in Sanford, Florida. With his infectious laugh and exciting aggressiveness, he became a fan favorite wherever he went. Over the 1980s, Raines was inextricably linked to Rickey Henderson, because of their similar ages and the havoc they wreaked on the basepaths. But while Henderson gained more fame by stealing more bases, Raines’ percentage was generally higher.

Benjamin Michael Kauff, nicknamed Benny, was born on January 5, 1890, in Pomeroy, Ohio. Benny was known as the “Ty Cobb of the Federal League.” He led the Federal League in batting and stolen bases in both its seasons. When it disbanded, Kauff was the plum picked by John McGraw for the Giants. He is the only player to be permanently banned from baseball for reasons other than gambling.

Exhibition Game: Comments & Questions ]]>

Richard “Dick” Lundy, nicknamed King Richard, was born July 10, 1898, Jacksonville, Fla. The best shortstop during the 1920s, Lundy bridged the time gap between John Henry Lloyd and Willie Wells. Lundy is generally categorized with them as the three greatest shortstops in black baseball history.

Burleigh Arland Grimes, nicknamed Ol’ Stubblebeard, was born August 18, 1893 in Emerald, Wisconsin. He was the last legal spitball pitcher in the majors. In a 19-year career that ended in 1934, he often faked the spitter to keep batters guessing.

Exhibition Game: Mitchell Report ]]>