Key Baseball Events in Decades

Baseball, often referred to as America's pastime, has a rich history filled with significant events that have shaped the sport. This article highlights key baseball events organized by decade, showcasing milestones, legendary players, and transformative moments in the game.

1900s

• 1901: The American League is established, creating a rival to the National League.
• 1903: The first modern World Series is played between the Boston Americans and the Pittsburgh Pirates.
• 1908: The infamous “Merkle’s Boner” incident occurs, leading to a controversial end to the National League pennant race.

1910s

• 1910: The first baseball game is played at Shibe Park in Philadelphia.
• 1919: The Black Sox Scandal unfolds, leading to the ban of several players, including "Shoeless" Joe Jackson.

1920s

• 1920: The establishment of the Negro National League, providing a platform for African American players.
• 1927: Babe Ruth hits 60 home runs in a single season, setting a record that stands for 34 years.

1930s

• 1936: The first Hall of Fame induction ceremony takes place, honoring baseball legends.
• 1939: The first televised baseball game occurs, between Columbia University and Princeton University.

1940s

• 1942: The All-American Girls Professional Baseball League is founded during World War II.
• 1947: Jackie Robinson breaks the color barrier in Major League Baseball, playing for the Brooklyn Dodgers.

1950s

• 1951: The famous "Shot Heard 'Round the World" occurs when Bobby Thomson hits a game-winning home run for the New York Giants.
• 1954: The New York Giants win the World Series, marking their last championship before moving to San Francisco.

1960s

• 1961: Roger Maris breaks Babe Ruth's single-season home run record by hitting 61 home runs.
• 1969: Major League Baseball expands to 12 teams, introducing the Montreal Expos and San Diego Padres.

1970s

• 1972: The first designated hitter rule is adopted in the American League.
• 1975: The Boston Red Sox and Cincinnati Reds face off in one of the most memorable World Series in history.

1980s

• 1981: A players' strike leads to a split season and the introduction of a playoff format.
• 1989: The infamous "Bash Brothers," Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco, rise to fame with the Oakland Athletics.

1990s

• 1994: A major league players' strike cancels the World Series for the first time since 1904.
• 1998: The home run chase between Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa captivates the nation.

2000s

• 2001: Barry Bonds breaks the single-season home run record with 73 home runs.
• 2004: The Boston Red Sox end an 86-year championship drought by winning the World Series.

2010s

• 2016: The Chicago Cubs win the World Series, ending a 108-year championship drought.
• 2017: The Houston Astros win their first World Series, marking a significant achievement for the franchise.

2020s

• 2020: The COVID-19 pandemic leads to a shortened season and the implementation of health protocols.
• 2021: Shohei Ohtani makes history as a two-way player, winning the American League MVP award.

Summary of Key Events by Decade

Baseball continues to evolve, and each decade brings new stories, challenges, and triumphs that contribute to the rich tapestry of the sport. For more detailed information on specific events, players, or teams, please visit the relevant sections on baseball on Lexolino.