Major League Baseball (MLB) is considered the oldest major professional sports league in the world, according to Wikipedia.
This great sport has been with us since 1876 and remains a source of entertainment and pride in all of North America, with 29 teams from the US and only one team from Canada. Interestingly, the mighty New York Yankees are the most successful team, having won 27 more titles than any other team. The rich history is punctuated with memorable World Series.
One of the most enjoyable positions is being an outfielder. These players play a critical role on the defensive side of the game. If you are an outfielder, your job is to read balls off the bat and learn how to field the ball when it’s on the ground, in the air, or in the gap. You must also know the situation and exactly where you should throw the ball and when to hit. It is clear that they are of huge importance for winning the game.
For many, MLB is not just a sport. It is a culture, a lifestyle, and a way of life. If you are a fan, player, or enthusiast of MLB who is looking to play in the coveted league, you might be interested in remembering some of the most memorable moments.
We have done our research and come up with a descriptive list of truly memorable MLB moments recorded in history, from its inception to the 21st century. Stay with us as we explore further.
- Boston Americans Defeat Pittsburgh Pirates, 5 Games to 3 (1903)
There was some disagreement between the American and National Leagues for two seasons before they could come to an agreement to play the very first modern World Series in 1903. The Americans had their way and scored five runs against the Pittsburgh Pirates, who only managed to score three runs in the nine-game series, effectively solidifying the league that officially began in 1901.
- Babe Ruth’s Called Shot (1932):
During Game 3 of the 1932 World Series, Babe Ruth allegedly pointed to the center field stands before hitting a home run in that direction. Whether or not Ruth actually called his shot is still a matter of debate, but the moment has become one of the most iconic in baseball history.
- Jackie Robinson’s Debut (1947):
On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson made his MLB debut with the Brooklyn Dodgers, breaking the color barrier in professional baseball. Robinson’s courage and talent paved the way for future generations of African American players.
- The Shot Heard ‘Round the World (1951):
In Game 3 of the 1951 National League tiebreaker series, Bobby Thomson hit a walk-off home run to give the New York Giants a win over the Brooklyn Dodgers. The moment is immortalized in the famous call by announcer Russ Hodges: “The Giants win the pennant! The Giants win the pennant!”
- The Catch (1954):
During Game 1 of the 1954 World Series, New York Giants outfielder Willie Mays made a spectacular over-the-shoulder catch, robbing Cleveland Indians batter Vic Wertz of an extra-base hit. The play is still considered one of the greatest defensive plays in baseball history, and one of the reasons why modern slogans like “outfield matters” come to mind.
- Don Larsen’s Perfect Game (1956):
In Game 5 of the 1956 World Series, New York Yankees pitcher Don Larsen threw a perfect game, retiring all 27 Brooklyn Dodgers batters he faced. To this day, Larsen’s perfect game remains the only one in World Series history.
- Bill Mazeroski’s Walk-Off Home Run (1960):
In Game 7 of the 1960 World Series, Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Bill Mazeroski hit a walk-off home run to give the Pirates a 10-9 win over the Yankees. Mazeroski’s home run is still the only walk-off home run in Game 7 of a World Series.
- Hank Aaron’s Record-Breaking Home Run (1974):
On April 8, 1974, Hank Aaron hit his 715th career home run, breaking Babe Ruth’s record. Aaron’s accomplishment was a historic moment in baseball and a symbol of his perseverance in the face of racism and hatred.
- Cal Ripken Jr.’s Streak (1995):
On September 6, 1995, Baltimore Orioles shortstop Cal Ripken Jr. played in his 2,131st consecutive game, breaking Lou Gehrig’s record. Ripken’s streak of 2,632 consecutive games played is still the longest in MLB history.
- Derek Jeter’s “Flip Play” (2001):
In Game 3 of the 2001 American League Division Series, New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter made a spectacular “flip play” to catcher Jorge Posada, cutting down Oakland A’s runner Jeremy Giambi at home plate. Jeter’s play helped the Yankees win the game and the series and is considered one of the greatest defensive plays in postseason history.
Conclusion
There you have it. There are many other memorable MLB moments that we were not able to include in this list. However, we are sure that you will agree with us that these moments have stayed in the minds of baseball players and fans alike. You can check them out and learn more about your favorite game. Did we leave out any game that you think deserves to be included in the list? Please share it with us.