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Brief History

1845 - 2010

The Founding of the Game of Baseball and the Baseball Hall of Fame

Baseball Eras & Rules Changes

Image source: www.wikipedia.org/wiki/baseball

Section 1 - Page 1 Photo Use Permissions, Acknowledgements, Credits for Section 1

The Founding of Baseball & the National Baseball Hall of Fame, 1845-1939 (page 6) Photos by © Joe Taxiera: 7 photos - Taken at the National Baseball Hall-of-Fame (HOF). Public Domain Photos: 8 photos - All non-HOF photos on page 6, with most of them first published prior to 1923.

19th Century Era, 1871-1900 & The Dead Ball Era, 1901-1919 (pages 8 & 10) Public Domain Photos: 32 photos - All photos from these 2 sections, with most of them first published prior to 1923. Most of these photos were available from more than one source, which included the Library of Congress, Baseball Fever, Wikipedia, Wikimedia and numerous other websites, as well as photos by U.S. Government related entities .

The Live Ball Era, 1920-1941 (see credits/players on page 12) National Baseball Hall of Fame Library: 14 photos Public Domain Photos: 2 photos

The War Era & Integration Era, 1942-1960 (see credits/players on page 14) National Baseball Hall of Fame Library: 16 photos

The Expansion Era, 1961-1976 (see credits/players on page 16) Photos courtesy of © Steve's Baseball Photography Pages, Steve Dewing, www.thatsmyboy03.com: 16 photos

The Free Agency Era, 1977-1993 (see credits/players on page 18) Photos courtesy of © Steve's Baseball Photography Pages, Steve Dewing, www.thatsmyboy03.com: 10 photos National Baseball Hall of Fame Library: 4 photos Photos by © Greg Eichelberger/[email protected]: 2 photos

The Long Ball Era, 1994-2007 (see credits/players on pages 20 & 22) Photos by © KeithAllisonPhoto.com: 11 photos Photos by © Michael G. Baron: 6 photos Photos by © Xiaolei Li: 3 photos Photos by © Peggy Hughes: 5 photos Photo by © Christopher Ebdon: 1 photo Photo by © Andy Monfried: 1 photo Photos by © Greg Eichelberger/[email protected]: 4 photos Public domain photo: 1 photo - Rafael Palmeiro

A Transition to a New Era of Stronger Pitching & Defense, 2008-2010 (see credits/players on page 24) Photos by © KeithAllisonPhoto.com: 8 photos Photos by © Michael G. Baron: 4 photos Photo by © Adam P. Fagan: 1 photo Photo by © Brock Fleeger: 1 photo Photo by © Greg Eichelberger/[email protected]: 1 photo Public domain photo: 1 photo -

Player photos will only be used in this book under the following circumstances: 1) Photos taken by the author of this book. 2) Photos with written permission from the original photographers and/or copyright holders. 3) Photos with written permission from websites verifying they are the original photographers and/or copyright holders. 4) Public Domain - photos first published prior to January 1, 1923 in the United States. 5) Public Domain - unpublished photos (created anywhere) where the author died before 1936. 6) Puplic Domain - published in the U.S. between 1923 and 1977 without a copyright notice. 7) Public Domain - published in the U.S. between 1923 and 1963 with a copyright notice, but copyright not renewed. 8) Public Domain - published outside the U.S. before 1923 (or before July 1, 1909 in the 9th Federal Court District). 9) Public Domain - published outside the U.S. between 1923 and 1977 and that are in the public domain. 10) Public Domain - photos taken by many U.S. Government related entities and designated as public domain. 11) Public Domain - newer photos released to the public domain by the photographers and/or copyright holders. 12) Photos from public libraries, with specific permission for use in this book. 13) Photos on public websites such as Flickr, Wikipedia, Wikimedia, etc., identified as "free use with no restrictions" or "free use with attribution" to the author/photographer, in which case the photographer is identified. Even in this case, most of the original photographers were contacted and they've provided written permission to use their photographs.

Section 1 - Page 2 Brief Baseball History

Contents - Section 1

Page What Makes Baseball Unique 4

Baseball Eras & Player Photos, 1845 - 2009 6

The Founding of Baseball & the Hall of Fame 1845 - 1939 7

The 19th Century Era 1871 - 1900 9

The Dead Ball Era 1901 - 1919 11

The Live Ball Era 1920 - 1941 13

The War Era & Integration Era 1942 - 1960 15

The Expansion Era 1961 - 1976 17

The Free Agency Era 1977 - 1993 19

The Long Ball Era 1994 - 2007 21

A transition to a new era of stronger Pitching & Defense 2008 - 2010 25

2008 Year in Review 2008 25

2009 Year in Review 2009 26

2010 Year in Review 2010 27

Home Runs - Average # of HR in 30 Current Ballparks 1996 - 2010 28

Home Runs - Home vs. Away - Top 15 Season HR Hitters 29

Home Ball Parks - Biggest Hitters' Advantages 1871 - 2010 30

Home Ball Parks - Biggest ' Advantages 1871 - 2010 31

Year-by-Year MLB-wide Comparison, Pitching & Hitting 1901 - 2010 32

Pitchers with 2.99 ERA, 20 W, 200 SO all in the same season 34 Pitchers with 2.99 ERA, 300 W, 3000 SO in career

Hitters with .300 AVG, 100 R, 100 RBI, 40 HR all in the same season 35 Hitters with .300 AVG, 2000 R, 2000 RBI, 500 HR in career

Annual Salary Progression 1901 - 2010 36

Highest Career Earnings - Players 1901 - 2010 38

Largest Single Contracts - Players 1901 - 2010 38

2010 Team Payrolls vs. 2009 2010 39

MLB Umpires - Most Games & HOF Umpires 1871 - 2010 40

First Night Games at 16 Ballparks, pre-expansion 1935 - 1988 40

Section 1 - Page 3 What makes Baseball Unique, compared to other Major Sports

Baseball has its origination from games such as , and in the early 1800's (see pages 6 & 7) , which makes it very different from other major American team sports, such as football, basketball, ice hockey & soccer. Some of the differences include the shape of the playing field, the lack of a clock or time limit to a game, the fact that the defense is in control of the ball, and that the ball doesn't change hands after each score. But the appeal to baseball fans is also about the subtleties or nuances of the game, such as the almost limitless ways of calculating statistics, the vast differences from ballpark to ballpark, situational defenses, and the pitch sequences based on a given batter or circumstance. A team can also choose to not face a batter, simply by intentionally walking him, minimizing the damage he could cause. They allow him to reach first base, but with no further immediate damage. In what other sport can you choose whether to face a strong opposing player, or to just "skip" him?

In baseball, the length of the game isn't determined by a clock. Instead of quarters or halves based on a fixed amount of playing time, baseball plays a game with 9 per team. Since a team can continue to score runs until 3 outs are recorded, this means that they can both build up a big lead or make up a large deficit in just one , before the other team has a chance to respond. In other sports, the ball either changes hands automatically after each score, or at a minimum, there's an opportunity for for some type of face-off or kick-off to regain possession. A large deficit becomes very difficult to make up, because it requires scoring on multiple (separate) possessions with the ball, while keeping the other team to minimal or no scoring. And of course, all of these possessions take time. Players on a team in the lead can draw each of their possessions to kill time off the clock, holding a lead simply by having the clock out…in other sports. In baseball, until the last out of the last inning, no matter how many runs a team is behind, there's still a chance to win.

The field dimensions vary by ball park, and the shape isn't rectangular like other sports Instead of the rectangular shaped field or playing area seen in other team sports, with offensive teams pushing through the defensive team, trying to make it from one end to the other to score "goals," baseball has it's diamond shape. And there is a single focal point, home plate, from which everything happens (no "goals" on each end like other sports). The batter starts at home plate, and scores a run after reaching 1st, 2nd and 3rd bases, and touching home safely. As mentioned before, the team that controls the ball (the defense) actually has no way to score. And the offensive players never touch the ball except with the bat, unless they're hit by a pitch or tagged out with the ball. Most sports have in-bounds and out-of-bounds areas. In baseball, a ball hit in foul territory is out of play for the hitter, but in play for the fielder if they can catch it on the fly. A fielder can even reach into the stands to catch a fly ball for an out. A ball hit over the outfield fence in fair territory is a , but even that's fair game if an can catch it above the fence. The 90 degree angle from home plate to the outfield fences in right and left field is consistent throughout all ball parks. But the distance from home plate to the fences vary by ball park, and the curvature of the fence around the outfield varies as well. And on top of that (no pun intended) the fence height and shape varies as it wraps around the outfield. Many ball parks also have non-symetrical outfield fences between the left and right sides. The amount of foul territory between the foul lines and seats is also different in every ball park. The newer ball parks have less foul territory, to bring the fans closer to the "action" on the field. This means that more foul pop flies make it safely to the stands without being caught. This gives the batter another chance for a hit, but also adds a strike, increasing chances for a . Image source: www.wikipedia.org/wiki/baseball

Section 1 - Page 4 Besides the infield dimensions, baseball parks don't follow a strict set of guidelines Could you imagine one of the NFL teams shortening their home field to 95 yards? Or lowering their goal posts? Or maybe building a 10° hill along the back of the end zone for wide receivers to run up as they're catching a touchdown? Baseball parks have this kind of flexibility. They move their fences and change the heights, with archways, bricks, corners and built-in scoreboards causing unpredictable bounces when balls hit against them. Boston's Fenway Park has outfield walls that are 37' high in left field, 18' high in center field, 5' high in right field (see page 51) . Houston's Minute Maid Park has a wide 10° grass covered incline sloping up against the center field fence (see page 59) . Los Angeles Dodger Stadium has fences down the foul lines that are only 4 feet high, allowing low line drive HR (see page 62) . Many parks have changed their outfield dimensions multiple times over the years. New York's (1923-2008) in 's days was much more spacious, except down the foul lines, as the left-handed Ruth was a strong pull-hitter to right field, and thus could take advantage of the short right field fence: Left LC Center RC Right 1923 280' 500' 487' 429' 294' (1923 was the first season in use for Yankee Stadium) 2008 318' 399' 408' 385' 314' (2008 was the final season; a new Yankee Stadium opened in 2009) Kansas City's Municipal Stadium made both Top Lists (see pages 30 & 31) for the biggest "Hitters Park" (1958, 1964) & "Pitchers Park" (1966, 1967). 239 HR were hit there in 1964 (147 in road games), and 45 HR in 1966 (131 in road games). In 1965, they moved the fences further out by 39' in left field, 45' in left center field and 11' in center field. Then in 1966, the 10' fence/screen heights were raised to 22' in left & center, and 40' in right. After 1967, the K.C. A's moved to Oakland… Adjustments to fence distances might also be made in the first few years of new ballparks. San Francisco's Candlestick Park opened in 1960, and the Giants hit & allowed 80 HR at home and 157 HR in their road games (see page 31) . After the season, they moved their fences 32' closer in left center and right center fields, and 10' closer in center field. In 1961, the Giants hit & allowed 174 HR at home, and hit & allowed 161 HR in their road games (much more balanced). Changes are sometimes made to the fences by the home team to leverage the strengths of current players. An example of this is Boston's Fenway Park in ' first 2 MLB seasons (left-handed pull hitter to right field): Williams' first season, 1939: right center 405' & right 332'...In his second season, 1940: right center 382' & right 304'. None of the other fence dimensions at Fenway Park were modified in 1940. Other parks have other circumstances that impact the flight and distance of a . 2 examples: 's Coors Field, has an altitude of 1 mile, where the ball carries further in the thin air (see pages 28 & 30) . 's has strong winds off of Lake Michigan, which varies by day and even time of day. This determines whether it's a "'s park" that day (the wind is blowing in toward home plate), or a "hitter's park" (wind blowing out).

It's batter vs. pitcher, then batter vs. 9 defenders, until runners start reaching base In most team sports, it's an equal number of players on offense and defense facing each other on a field or court. In baseball, it's the pitcher versus the batter initially. The catcher's job is to "call" the pitches to throw, and to catch them. Since hitting is about timing, the pitcher tries to change the location and speeds of pitches, to keep the batter guessing and off-balance. If the batter strikes out, the other defenders don't get involved. Defensive players prepare for each batter by changing their position on the field, based on their knowledge of both the pitcher's and batter's tendencies, and they get more actively involved as batters make contact with the ball, or reach base. So each batter is playing against 9 defensive players, hoping to place a hit in between or over the defenders. Once runners start reaching base, they can serve as distractions to the pitcher and fielders, as threats to steal, or advance around the bases in other ways. Pitchers often change their windup with runners on base, pitching out of a "stretch" position instead of a windup. They can pitch the ball to the plate more quickly from this position, reducing the possibility of a . But many pitchers don't pitch as effectively when they're not using the windup, which benefits the batter. But ultimately, there will always be 9 defenders on the field, and there can be at most 4 offensive players, if all 3 bases are occupied with runners.

So all things aren't "equal" in baseball, but that doesn't really matter. It just adds to the appeal of the game. In the end, the numbers are the numbers, and baseball fans do love comparing them.

Section 1 - Page 5 Rounders Town Ball / "Massachusetts game" Cricket field

Alexander Cartwright Al Spalding Judge (All photos above were in the Public Domain, see Page 2 for more details)

National Baseball Hall of Fame, Cooperstown, N.Y., established in 1939

Hall of Fame plaques of the first 5 players elected in 1936 (3 years before the official opening of the HOF): **** **** Babe Ruth **** ****

(National Baseball Hall of Fame photos above by © Joe Taxiera)

Section 1 - Page 6 Pre- Era - The Founding of Baseball

Early 1800's Baseball evolved from many games being played in America (some that originated in England), such as rounders, crickett, town ball (AKA the "Massachusetts game"), stool ball, poison ball, bat and ball, goat ball, and the "New York game" of base ball. 1845 , a New York bank teller, organized the Knickerbocker Base Ball Club in 1845, with many former members of the New York Base Ball Club, who played the "New York game." Cartwright and Daniel "Doc" Adams formalized the first set of 20 rules, which included: 1) Bases shall be from "home" to second base, 42 paces; from first to third base, 42 paces. 2) The field shall be divided into fair and foul territories. 3) "Soaking" will no longer be allowed (throwing the ball at baserunners to put them out). 4) 3 hands out, all out (3 outs to a half-inning). Also established the following year: 9 players to a side on offense and defense. Some early baseball expressions from the mid-1800's, and what they're called today: Aces (runs), Behind (catcher), Club Nine (team), Cranks (fans), Dew Drop (slow pitch), Foul Tick (), Hands out (outs), Hurler (pitcher), Match (game), Muff (), Striker (batter), Tally (score). 1857 National Association of Base Ball Players was formed by 22 clubs, with "Doc" Adams from the Knickerbocker BB Club voted President and Chairman of the Committee on Rules & Regulations. New rules: 9 inning games, called strikes, 90' between bases & 45' to the pitchers mound. 1864 Henry Chadwick, one of baseball's first sportswriters, introduced his boxscore scoring system in 1864 (adapted from the Cricket scorecard), and the " average" (1865) and ERA statistics. 1905 Henry Chadwick wrote an article claiming the origin of baseball was rounders (an English game). Al Spalding (former CWS pitcher), a sporting goods store owner, was outraged and spearheaded the forming of the 7-member Mills Commission, (run by Colonel A.G. Mills, former N.L. President) to determine the true (American) origin. They posted public advertisements requesting information. 1907 In response to the Mills Commission ad, 73-year-old Abner Graves gave testimony that he was a schoolmate and playmate of in Cooperstown, N.Y., when in 1839, Graves (5 years old) saw Doubleday use a stick to draw a baseball diamond in the dirt, including the locations of the players. Abner Doubleday coincidentally happened to be someone that A.G. Mills knew. Doubleday was a cadet at West Point in 1839, later became a General and Civil War hero… this was the perfect story … baseball invented in a rural American town by a future war hero. Doubleday, who had passed away in 1893, never mentioned baseball in his 67 diaries, or in his many newspaper & magazine articles after retiring from the Army. Nor did he ever mention it to his friend of 30 years, Colonel A.G. Mills... The result? The Mills Commission wrongly credited Abner Doubleday with inventing baseball. 1935 Steven , a wealthy Cooperstown resident, decided to build a national baseball museum in the "founding town" of baseball, as he felt that tourism was the way to boost the economy of this village. He contacted Ford Frick, the President of the , and offered to personally pay all construction costs of the building. The new Baseball Hall of Fame was planned for opening in 1939. 1936 The first 5 players were elected by the Baseball Writers Association of America, into the yet-to-be- opened Hall of Fame: Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson and Walter Johnson. 1938 Baseball Commissioner Kenesaw Mountain Landis received a letter from Bruce Cartwright, who provided documentation that it was his grandfathe r, Alexander Cartwright, who in 1845 drew the first baseball diamond, and created the new rules. A committee confirmed this, and named Cartwright into the HOF as a "Father of Modern Baseball." No mention was made of the Doubleday "error." In reality, there was no one single inventor of baseball, as it was a sport that evolved over time. Abner Graves' identification in 1907 of Abner Doubleday may have been a case of mistaken identity. Graves was only 5 years old in 1839, while Abner Doubleday would have been 20. Doubleday had a younger cousin also named Abner Doubleday who lived in Cooperstown, close to Graves' age, and therefore could have been his "schoolmate." Maybe two 5-year-olds, drawing a game in the dirt, evolved into the story of a famous war hero who was the inventor of baseball, who wasn't… 1939 The official National Baseball Hall of Fame dedication in Cooperstown, New York, on the 100-year anniversary of what was originally thought to be the "invention" of baseball by Abner Doubleday in 1839. See page 369 for additional photos and information on the Baseball Hall of Fame inductees.

Section 1 - Page 7 Denton "Cy" Young (P) Michael "Mickey" Welch (P) (P) Charles "Kid" Nichols (P) 30 Wins x 5; 20 Wins x 15 44 W & 1.66 ERA in 1885 30 Wins x 6; 53 W in 1885 30 Wins x 7; 20 Wins x 11 Records: 511 W, 749 CG 307 Wins, 2.71 ERA 328 Wins, 2.81 ERA 361 Wins, 2.95 ERA, 531 CG

Thomas "Tommy" Bond (P) Timothy "Tim" Keefe (P) James "Pud" Galvin (P) Charles "Hoss" Radbourn (P) Won 40 games 3 cons. yrs. 41 W, 68 CG, 361 SO in 1883 46 W in 1883 & 1884 59 W, 73 CG, 1.38 in 1884 234 W career, 2.31 ERA 30 W x 6 cons., 342 W, 2.62 ERA 20 W x 10; 364 W, 2.86 20 W x 9; 309 W, 2.67 ERA

"Wee Willie" Keeler (RF) Adrian "Cap" Anson (1B) Dennis "Dan" Brouthers (1B) Billy Hamilton (CF) 329 Hits & .424 Avg in 1897 2,076 RBI, 3,418 H, .333 Avg .350 x 6; .300 x 14 192 R, .404 Avg in 1894 2,932 Hits & .341 Avg Record 27 Seasons 2,296 Hits, .342 Avg 912 SB, .344 Avg

Ed Delahanty (LF) "Sir" (CF) Jesse "Crab" Burkett (LF) John McGraw (3B, MGR) 238 Hits & .410 in 1899 160 R, 237 H, .440 in 1894 160 R, 240 H, .410 in 1896 .547 OBP, .391 in 1899 .400 x 3; .300 x 11; .346 Avg .300 x 10, .324 Avg .400 x 2; .300 x 11, .338 Avg .466 OBP & .334 Avg

All photos on this page were in the Public Domain, see Page 2 for more details

Section 1 - Page 8 19th Century Era (excluded from post-1900 "modern" records), 1871-1900

Constant rules changes during this era made it very difficult to compare statistics with future post-1900 records. When the National League started in 1876, teams played from 57 to 70 games, and all the players played everyday. There was often only 1 pitcher per team. (STL) started all 64 games for his team and completed 63. had 68 GS and 66 CG. Of the 520 games started by pitchers league-wide, 473 were complete games. The game changed quickly during the late 1800's, evolving into 3-man starting pitching rotations and relief pitchers. Other leagues came & went: American Assoc. (1882-1891), Union Assoc. (1884 only), Players League (1890 only). During this era, starting pitchers completed 90% of their games, and the season HR record was 27.

1871 National Association, the first professional league, was formed with 9 teams and grew to 13 teams, but was plagued by financial solvency and gambling problems, ultimately disbanding at the end of 1875. 1876 National League was formed with 8 teams, predominantly with players from the National Association. 1879 - reduced to 9 "called balls" won 40+ games for his third consecutive season. 1880 Base on Balls - reduced to 8 "called balls." A baserunner was ruled out if hit by a batted ball. It is now a strikeout when a catcher catches a foul or foul tip on the fly on the third strike. 1881 Base on Balls - reduced to 7 "called balls." The pitcher's rubber moved from 45' to 50' from home plate. 1884 Base on Balls - reduced to 6 "called balls"

1884 Huge HR season. Lakefront Park II in Chicago, with very short outfield fences (LF 180', CF 300', RF 196') was only used for 2 years. In 1883, balls hit over the short outfield fences were ground rule doubles, but in 1884 they were home runs. The top 4 HR marks from 1871-1898 were all hit in 1884, with all 4 being the following Chicago players: (27 HR, 25 at home), (25 HR, all at home), Abner Dalrymple (22 HR, 18 at home), and (21 HR, 20 at home). Home Runs hit by: 1883 1884 1885 - League Leader 10 27 11 - Ned Williamson 3 27 2 - Chicago White Stockings team 13 142 54 - 8 National League teams combined 124 322 174 , (Chicago White Stockings), won 35 games, and allowed a NL record 35 HR (he had only allowed 7 HR in 1883). This record of 35 HR allowed won't be broken for 64 years (1948). "Old Hoss" Radbourn won a record 59 games (with 12 losses) which still stands today. In 678 IP, he had 73 CG in 73 starts, with 11 shutouts, 441 , and an ERA of 1.38. He allowed 18 HR. won 46 games for the second consecutive year, with a 1.99 ERA. He allowed 23 HR. MLB record 8 no-hitters were pitched (4 in AA, 2 in NL and 2 in UA in their only season of existence)

1885 One side of the could now be flat (this only lasted one year). John Clarkson went 53-16 as a pitcher, with 623 IP, 1.85 ERA, 10 SHO, and 68 CG in 70 starts. 1887 Base on Balls - reduced to 5 "called balls." A strikeout was 4 "called" strikes, for this season only. Pitcher's box reduced to 4 feet by 5 1/2 feet. A batter was awarded first base when hit by a pitch. 1888 Pud Galvin became ' first career 300 game winner. 1889 Base on Balls - reduced to 4 "called balls" where it remains today. 1893 Pitcher's box replaced by a pitcher's rubber slab 12" x 4", and moved from 50' to 60'6" from home plate.

1894 Big offensive season. Highest runs scored totals ever recorded in the National League. Hugh Duffy won the NL Crown (.440 AVG, 18 HR, 145 RBI), set other records (.694 SLG, 85 XBH, 374 TB). Billy Hamilton set records with 192 Runs and 355 TOB, and Heinie Reitz hit a record 31 Triples. led the NL with an unusually high ERA of 2.78. Only 4 pitchers had an ERA under 4.00.

1895 Pitcher's rubber slab size increased to 24" x 6." New 2 3/4" maximum diameter for a baseball bat.

Section 1 - Page 9 Grover "Pete" Alexander (P) Christy Mathewson (P) Mordecai "3-Finger" Brown (P) Walter Johnson (P) 20 W x 9, 373 W, 2.56 ERA 20 W x 13; 373 W, 2.13 ERA 20 W x 6; 239 W; 2.06 ERA 20 W x 12; 417 W, 2.17 ERA Record 16 Shutouts in 1916 1.14 ERA in 1909 1.04 ERA in 1906 Record 110 Shutouts

Charles "Chief" Bender (P) Joe McGinnity (P) "Happy Jack" Chesbro (P) (P) 212 Wins, 2.46 ERA 20 W x 8; 246 W, 2.66 ERA 41 W, 48 CG, 1.82 ERA in 1904 20 W x 8; 326 W, 2.35 ERA

Sam Crawford (RF) (P) (P) (CF) .300 x 10; 309 3B, .309. Avg 40 Wins, 1.42 ERA in 1908 193 Wins, 2.16 ERA .300 x 18; 3,514 Hits, .345 Record 309 Triples Record 1.82 ERA 27 W, 1.48 ERA in 1905 Record 792 Doubles

Ty Cobb (CF) Napolean "Nap" Lajoie (2B) John "Honus" Wagner (SS) Joe Jackson (OF) "The Georgia Peach" 1901 & .426 Avg 723 SB, 3,420 H, .327 Avg "Shoeless Joe" 897 SB, 4,189 H, .366 Avg .300 x 15; 3,242 H, .338 Avg .300 Avg x 15 cons. 1911-.408 Avg. & 233 Hits .300 x 23 cons.; .400 x 3 .356 Career Avg

All photos on this page were in the Public Domain, see Page 2 for more details

Section 1 - Page 10 The Dead Ball Era (The Dirty Ball Era), 1901-1919

Pitchers dominated this era, with the exceptions of 1901, 1911 & 1912. 9 pitchers won the Triple Crown (page 361). "Doctored" Baseballs were commonly used during this 19 year era. Spitballs were legal, with pitchers using saliva mixed with tobacco juice, slippery elm, chewing gum, etc. Mud, resin, talcum powder & paraffin were also used, and the baseball was cut, roughed and misshapen with tools, spikes, sanding & filing with an emery board.

The same baseball would often be used for an entire game during this era, because of their high cost ($3 each). Foul balls were redeemed by fans for free admission to other games, and returned balls were put back in play. By the ninth inning, this ball would often become a dark greenish brown color, making it difficult for hitters to see on the onset of twilight. The stitching would sometimes start unraveling, leaving the horsehide ragged or loose. During this time, emphasis was placed on the hit-and-run, singles, bunts, sacrifices and stolen bases. The dead ball and large open parks made for fewer home runs, and more doubles, triples and inside-the-park HR. Batters used heavy bats, choked up on the handle, and didn't attack the pitch aggressively. Managers relied on pitching and defensive strategy much more than offensive strategy. This was referred to as the "scientific method." Foul strike rule for the first 2 strikes was applied in 1901 in the NL and 1903 in the AL, adding to hitting difficulties. The Dead Ball Era had outstanding batting averages by the best players, but low league-wide batting averages: NL AVG in 1908 was .239, Honus Wagner's .354 led NL AL AVG in 1910 was .243, 's .384 led AL During this era, starting pitchers completed 67% of their games, and the season HR record was 29.

1901 was formed, competing with the National League for available players, and taking advantage of the NL 4-team contraction after 1900. Hitters flourished, as 41 hit for a .300 AVG. Nap Lajoie won the first AL Triple Crown (.426 AVG, 14 HR, 125 RBI). His .426 AVG remains the MLB record. 1904 The pitcher's mound had a new height limit of 15". Hitters struggled, as only 9 hit for a .300 AVG. , an exceptional spitballer, set still-current records with 51 GS, 48 CG and 41 Wins. A record 17 pitchers won 20 games. This record will only be matched once in the future. 1906 Mordecai "Three-Finger" Brown had a MLB record 1.04 ERA, which will be the 2nd lowest in history. 1908 had an ERA of 1.16, as 18 pitchers had < 2.00 ERA and 64 pitchers had < 3.00 ERA. Incredibly, only 5 pitchers had > 3.00 ERA with a min. 154 IP, with the highest at 3.60 (see page 32). won the over the . The Cubs haven't won a W.S. since.

1909 Ty Cobb won the AL Triple Crown (.377 AVG, 9 HR, 107 RBI) & led Detroit to their 3rd straight AL pennant.

1911 A peak offensive season in this era. New "cork center" baseball (used in the 1910 World Series) was introduced as the MLB standard. Ty Cobb hit for a .420 AVG, and "Shoeless" Joe Jackson finished second in the AL with a .408 AVG. (80 games into the 1911 season, Ty Cobb had a .450 AVG, a 70 point lead over Joe Jackson and his .380 AVG) retired with the following MLB career pitching records: 511 W, 316 L, 815 GS, 749 CG. 1912 A peak offensive season in this era. Ty Cobb hit for a .409 AVG, and "Shoeless" Joe Jackson finished second in the AL with a .395 AVG. "Chief" Wilson (PIT) hit a still current MLB record 36 Triples. His next best season: 14 Triples in 1913.

1913 Athletics won their 3rd World Championship in 4 years, led by Frank "Home Run" Baker. 1914 Dutch Leonard set a MLB season record 0.96 ERA, a record that still stands. Federal League was formed, but lasted only 2 seasons before disbanding. 1916 Grover Cleveland "Pete" Alexander set a MLB record with 16 SHO, & had a 1.55 ERA, 38 CG, 33 Wins. 1917 retired with MLB career records of 309 Triples and 51 Inside-the-Park Home Runs. Ed Walsh retired with a MLB record 1.82 career ERA. 6 No-Hitters were pitched, matching the 1908 & 1915 seasons (this won't happen again until 1969). 1918 With World War I, the season was shortened to 128 games. Led by pitcher / hitter Babe Ruth, the won their 4th World Championship in the last 7 years (but won't win again until 2004). 1919 World War I continued, and the season was shortened to 140 games. Babe Ruth hit a MLB record 29 HR in his last season with the Red Sox (he will be sold to the Yankees). Black Sox Scandal, with 8 players "throwing" the World Series in a gambling scandal. The most famous player "questionably" implicated in this scandal was "Shoeless" Joe Jackson.

Section 1 - Page 11 George Herman "Babe" Ruth (RF); 1 MVP (1B); 3 MVP Joe DiMaggio (CF); 3 MVP 714 HR, 2,213 RBI, .342 Avg; W94-L46, 2.28 ERA 534 HR, 1,922 RBI, .325 Avg 56 game hitting streak in 1941 .300 Avg x 14; 40 HR x 11; 100 RBI x 13 .300 Avg x 11; 100 RBI x 13 .300 Avg x 10; 100 RBI x 9; .325 Avg

Lou Gehrig (1B); 2 MVP (RF) (2B); 2 MVP (1B); 1 MVP 40 HR x 5; 100 R & RBI x 13 511 HR, 1,860 RBI, .304 Avg 2 Triple Crowns; .424 in 1924 .420-1922; 257 Hits-1920 .300 x 12; .340 Avg, 493 HR 100 R & RBI x 9 .300 x 14; .400 x 3; .358 Avg .300 x 13; .400 x 2; .340

Chuck Klein (RF); 1 MVP (LF) (LF); 1 MVP Lewis "Hack" Wilson (CF) 250 H, 170 RBI, .386 in 1930 253 H, .387 in 1925 237 H, 154 RBI, .374 in 1937 56 HR, 191 RBI, .356 in 1930 1 Triple Crown; .320 Avg 100 RBI x 12; .300 x 13; .334 1 Triple Crown; .324 Avg 100 RBI x 6; .307 Avg

Bill Terry (1B) (P); 2 MVP Robert "Lefty" Grove (P); 1 MVP (P) 254 Hits, .401 Avg in 1930 Record 24 cons. Wins 31 W, 27 CG, 2.06 in 1931 20 Wins x 5; 270 Wins 200 H x 6; .300 x 10; .341 20 W x 5; 253 W, 2.98 ERA 20 Wins x 8; 300 W, 3.06 ERA

Photos courtesy of National Baseball Hall of Fame Library: All photos on this page except Babe Ruth (both public domain photos).

Section 1 - Page 12 The Live Ball Era (The Clean Ball Era), 1920-1941

Hitters dominated this era, with MLB "tweaking" the baseball's construction to make it livelier and increase offense. The home run feats of Babe Ruth in the early 1920's influenced hitting, as bunting & base stealing both declined. The dominated this era as a team, with 9 World Series Championships & 12 AL Pennants. 1920-1939 were strong offensively with the number of .300 hitters per season ranging from 36 to 62 players. During this era, starting pitchers completed 47% of their games, & 8 players hit 50+ HR in a season.

1920 New baseball was introduced, with a higher grade wool yarn used to wrap around the cork core center, and the cores were wound by machine rather than by hand. This new ball was also less expensive. Babe Ruth's HR's jumped from 29 in 1919, to a MLB record 54 in 1920, with a MLB record .847 SLG. George Sisler hit for a .407 AVG with a MLB record 257 Hits (a record that won't be broken until 2004). The spitball was banned for fear of seriously injuring batters, but a "grandfather clause" allowed teams to register designated spitball pitchers. 17 pitchers were registerd by the end of 1921. Ray Chapman was killed by a ball pitched by (not a spitballer), reportedly by a "dirty" ball that was hard to see. Umpires were directed to put new cleaner baseballs in play more frequently. Other "freak deliveries" and other forms of "ball doctoring" were also outlawed. The Negro Leagues were formed in answer to racial discrimination in the major leagues. 1921 Babe Ruth hit a MLB record 59 HR, breaking his own record of 54 set the prior year. Umpires started rubbing a special mud into baseballs, reducing gloss and slickness without dirtying.

1922 Rogers Hornsby won the NL Triple Crown (.401 AVG, 42 HR, 152 RBI). George Sisler won the AL Batting Title (.420 AVG), with Ty Cobb finishing 2nd (.401 AVG). Cobb also hit for a .400 AVG in 1911 & 1912.

1924 Rogers Hornsby won NL Batting Title (.424 AVG), second only to Nap Lajoie (.426 AVG in 1901) since 1901.

1925 Rogers Hornsby won his second NL Triple Crown in 4 years (.403 AVG, 39 HR, 143 RBI). 1926 New "cushioned cork center" baseball was introduced, which was slighly deadened. 1927 Babe Ruth hit a MLB record 60 HR, breaking his own record of 59 HR set in 1921. 1928 Ty Cobb retired with a MLB record career .367 AVG; Tris Speaker retired with a MLB record 792 doubles.

1930 The peak offensive season during this era. Record 62 players had a .300 AVG & 36 scored 100 runs. NL hit 892 HR league-wide, with a .303 AVG (only time over .300 in history). AL hit 673 HR with .288 AVG. hit .401, had MLB record 191 RBI, 174 RBI, Al Simmons 165 RBI, had .386 AVG, 158 R, 250 H, 40 HR, 107 XBH, 170 RBI, 445 TB & MLB record 44 OF Assists. 4 players hit 40 HR in the same season for the first time. Many players had career years offensively, but no batters had 100 SO. Hack Wilson's 84 SO led NL; Jimmie Foxx & Ed Morgan led AL with 66 SO.

1931 New baseball was introduced with raised seams , giving pitchers a better grip and improved . AL kept the new ball as is, but the NL decided to "deaden" their baseballs after high 1930 offense. NL hit 493 HR (45% decrease), with a .277 AVG. The AL surpassed the NL with 576 HR. It will take until the 1942 season before the NL catches back up to the AL offensively. Earl Webb hit a still current MLB record 67 Doubles. His next best season: 30 Doubles in 1930. Balls that bounced over the outfield fence were now considered "ground-rule doubles" instead of HR.

1933 2 Triple Crown Winners: Jimmie Foxx, AL (.356, 48 HR, 163 RBI); Chuck Klein, NL (.368, 28 HR, 120 RBI). The first All-Star Game was played at in Chicago, won by the National League, 4-2.

1934 Lou Gehrig won the AL Triple Crown (.363 AVG, 49 HR, 165 RBI), but won the AL MVP . 1935 Babe Ruth retired at age 40, one week after hitting 3 home runs in a game on May 25. The first night game was played under the lights in Cincinnati's Crosley Field (see more on page 40) .

1937 Joe Medwick became the last NL player to win the Triple Crown (.374 AVG, 31 HR, 154 RBI) & won NL MVP . Carl Hubbell set MLB record with a 24-game winning streak, from July 1936 through May 1937.

1938 Jimmie Foxx won his 3rd AL MVP (.349, 50 HR, 175 RBI); Catcher won the NL MVP (.342 AVG). 1939 Lou Gehrig retired 8 games into the season, after learning he had ALS. He will pass away June 2, 1941. 1941 Ted Williams hit .406, the 13th and final .400 hitter since 1901. He missed the Triple Crown by 5 RBI. Joe DiMaggio had a MLB record 56 game hit streak, and edged Ted Williams for the AL MVP Award.

Section 1 - Page 13 Ted Williams (LF) (LF) (CF) (CF) 2 MVP; 2 Triple Crowns 3 MVP; 3,630 Hits, .331 Avg 3 MVP; 1 Triple Crown; 1 GG 2 MVP; 12 GG; .302 Avg 521 HR, .344 Avg, .406-1941 .300 Avg x 17; 475 HR 40 HR x 4; 536 HR, .298 Avg 40 HR x 6; 660 HR

Roberto Clemente (RF) Henry "Hank" Aaron (RF) (RF) (C) 1 MVP; 12 GG; .317 Avg 1 MVP; 1 GG; .305 Avg 2 MVP; 1 Triple Crown; 1 GG 3 MVP; .276 Avg .300 Avg x 13; 3,000 Hits 40 HR x 8; 755 HR, 2,297 RBI 586 HR, .294 Avg 41 HR, 142 RBI in 1953

Jackie Robinson (2B) (C) (SS) (RF) 1 MVP; .311 career Avg 3 MVP; 358 HR, .285 Avg 2 MVP; 1 GG; 512 HR, .274 10 GG; 3,007 Hits, .297 Avg

Bob Feller (P) (P) (P) (P) 26 W, 348 SO, 2.18 ERA-1946 286 Wins, 3.41 ERA 1 CYA, 300 Wins 1 CYA, 362 Wins 20 Wins x 6; 266 Wins 20 Wins x 6 cons. seasons 20 Wins x 5 seasons 20 Wins x 13 seasons 3 no-hitters, 12 one-hitters 2 no-hitters

All photos on this page courtesy of National Baseball Hall of Fame Library

Section 1 - Page 14 The War Era & Integration Era, 1942-1960

During the early 1940's, almost 500 major and minor league players served in World War II. Considering there were only 8 AL and 8 NL teams, this was a significant number of unavailable players during a 4-year period. Replacement players were hired (some classified "4F" that couldn't serve) and the play was consequently "diluted." Ted Williams, at ages 25-27, served in WW II from 1943-1945, but managed to win Triple Crowns both before & after. Joe DiMaggio missed the 1943-1945 seasons to serve in WW II, while missed almost 4 full seasons. , Warren Spahn, , and Yogi Berra were amongst the many other players missing 3 of their "prime" baseball years to serve in the war. During the early 1950's, over 120 major and minor league, and college players served during the Korean War. Ted Williams, Willie Mays, , , and , were amongst these players. In 1947, became the first black MLB player since 1884. The integration that followed with players such as Willie Mays, Henry Aaron, and Ernie Banks led to the demise of the Negro Leagues. Teams started relocating to other cities for the first time since 1903. 5 teams moved between 1953 - 1958. The most balanced period in MLB history between pitching & hitting may have been from 1947 to 1959, excluding the 1952 season (Korean War). But the New York Yankees dominated this era, with 9 World Championships. During this era, starting pitchers completed 37% of their games, & 5 players hit 50+ HR in a season.

1942 Ted Williams won the AL Triple Crown (.356 AVG, 36 HR, 137 RBI), but won the AL MVP . 1943 Temporary change in baseball construction during World War II, due to rubber shortages. A lower grade rubber was used in the balls' core, and they called it a "balatta ball" that felt "dead" when hit.

1945 Snuffy Stirnweiss (.30854), edged (.30845) for AL Batting Title, the smallest margin ever. 1946 With WW II over, standard baseballs were back in use, and some of the stars came back strong, but overall offense barely improved. This wasn't suprising, as many players were "rusty" from 3 years away. Bob Feller had a spectacular season upon returning from serving almost 4 years in WW II, with 36 CG out of 42 starts, 10 SHO, an ERA of 2.18, 26 Wins and 348 SO. Stan Musial returned from serving in the Navy, batting .365 to win the NL MVP , with 22 of 24 first votes. Ted Williams also returned from WW II, batting .342 with 38 HR and 123 RBI to win the AL MVP .

1947 Integration began this season, with Jackie Robinson (NL) and (AL) the first black MLB players. and co-led the NL with 51 HR. Joe DiMaggio won the AL MVP (.315, 20 HR, 97 RBI). Ted Williams won his 2nd AL Triple Crown (.343 AVG, 32 HR, 114 RBI), but lost the MVP by 1 vote (202-201). Williams only received 3 out of 24 first place MVP votes, hurt by his poor relationship with sportwriters. Jackie Robinson won the first annual Rookie of the Year award given to one player in MLB in 1947.

1948 Stan Musial won his second NL MVP in 3 years (.376 AVG, 39 HR, 131 RBI), 1 HR short of the Triple Crown . , a long-time star in the Negro Leagues past his prime, made his MLB debut at age 42. In 72 IP, he had 6 wins and 1 loss, 3 complete games and 2 consecutive shutouts, with an ERA of 2.48. 1949 Jackie Robinson was the first black player to win a NL MVP . Eight of the next 10 NL MVP's will be black. Ted Williams won the AL MVP and just missed winning a third Triple Crown (.343 AVG, 43 HR, 159 RBI), losing the Battle Title by .0001 (.3429 to .3428) on the last day of the season to . Ralph Kiner led the NL with 54 HR. The AL set a MLB record with 4.55 walks per team, per game. 1950 A peak offensive season during this era. expanded after AL record walks/game in 1949. Stan Musial, Jackie Robinson, Ralph Kiner, all had big offensive seasons in the NL, but (Phillies ), won the MVP with 16 Wins in 74 games of relief, with 22 Saves. 1952 With the Korean War, there was a big drop in offense for one season, as many players served in the war. The number of pitchers with an ERA under 3.00: 5 in 1951 22 in 1952 6 in 1953 1955 Yogi Berra (AL) and Roy Campanella (NL) each won his 3rd MVP in 5 years. Both were catchers. Willie Mays hit 51 HR, as 6 players hit 40+ HR for the third consecutive season. The previous high was 4 players with 40+ HR (1930). From 1955-1959, annual HR were in a consistent 2,202 to 2,294 range.

1956 Mickey Mantle won his first of 2 consecutive AL MVP 's, and the Triple Crown (.353 Avg, 52 HR, 130 RBI).

1959 Ernie Banks won his 2nd cons. NL MVP (.304, 45 HR, 143 RBI) and the AL MVP (.306, 2 HR, 70 RBI). 1960 Ted Williams retired with a MLB record .482 OBP. He hit 521 HR, despite losing 5 years to military service. Roger Maris (225 votes) edged out teammate Mickey Mantle (222 votes) for the AL MVP Award.

Section 1 - Page 15 (P) (P) (P) (P) 3 CYA; 1 MVP; 2.76 ERA 243 W, 2.89 ERA 2 CYA; 1 MVP; 9 GG; 2.91 ERA 2 CYA; 314 W, 3.11 ERA 20 Wins x 3; 4 no-hitters 20 Wins x 6; 1 no-hitter 20 Wins x 5; 251 Wins 20 Wins x 5; 1 no-hitter

Jim Palmer (P) (P) Denny McLain (P) (2B) 3 CYA; 4 GG; 2.86 ER A 1 CYA; 3,192 SO 1 MVP, 2 CYA; 20 Wins x 3 2 MVP; 5 GG; .271 Avg 20 Wins x 8; 268 Wins 20 Wins x 7; 284 Wins 1968 - 31 W, 280 SO, 1.96 689 SB, 268 HR, 2,517 H

Pete Rose (OF, 1B, 2B) (LF) (LF) (2B, 1B) 1 MVP; 2 GG; 4,256 H, .303 938 SB, .300 x 8; .293 Avg 1 MVP; 1 Triple Crown; 7 GG 1 MVP; .300 x 15; .328 Avg .300 x 15; 200 H x 10 200 H x 4; 3,023 Hits 3,419 H, 452 HR, 1,844 RBI 200 H x 4; 3,053 Hits

Willie McCovey (1B) (1B, 3B) (C) (3B) 1 MVP; 40 HR x 2; 521 HR 1 MVP; 40 HR x 8; 573 HR 2 MVP; 10 GG; 389 HR 1 MVP; 16 GG; 2,848 H

All photos on this page courtesy of © Steve's Baseball Photography Pages, Steve Dewing, www.thatsmyboy03.com

Section 1 - Page 16 The Expansion Era, 1961-1976

MLB expanded beyond 8 teams per league for the first time this century. In 1961 (AL) & 1962 (NL), the leagues grew to 10 teams each, and in 1969, expanded again to 12 teams per league (with 2 x 6 team divisions). The threat of a new 8-team "" announced in 1959, to start in 1961, forced MLB into its first expansion in 60 years (since 1901). The Continental League disbanded without ever playing a game, with the agreement that 4 of its franchises would join Major Leage Baseball, with 2 teams in 1961, and 2 teams in 1962. During this era, starting pitchers completed 26% of their games, and 3 players hit 50+ HR

1961 AL expansion season, with 2 teams added: The Washington Senators and . Roger Maris hit 61 HR to break Babe Ruth's record, and the NY Yankees hit a MLB record 240 HR. Mickey Mantle was second with 54 HR. Maris (202 votes) edged out Mantle (198 votes) for the AL MVP . AL HR increased 41%, from 1,086 in 1960 to 1,534 HR. 8 players hit 40 HR, a single season record. led the AL with a 2.40 ERA. Only 3 AL & no NL pitchers had an ERA under 3.00.

1962 NL expansion season, with 2 teams added: The Houston Colt .45's and . NL HR increased 21%, from 1,196 in 1961 to 1,449. MLB hit a record 3,001 HR. Mickey Mantle won his 3rd AL MVP , while Maury Wills (record 104 SB) edged Willie Mays for NL MVP . 1963 Start of 6 years of pitching dominance, as MLB reacted to the 1961-1962 expansion offensive surge. 24 pitchers had <3.00 ERA with the widened strike zone and enforcement "relaxed" on 15" mound height.

1966 Frank Robinson won the AL MVP & Triple Crown (.316, 49 HR, 122 RBI). Roberto Clemente was NL MVP . Sandy Koufax won his 3rd in 4 years, and had 4 no-hitters in 4 seasons (1962-1965).

1967 Carl Yastrzemski became the last Triple Crown winner, and won the AL MVP (.326 AVG, 44 HR, 121 RBI).

1968 "The Year of the Pitcher." An amazing 49 pitchers had an ERA under 3.00, with 7 being under 2.00. The expanded strike zone and higher mounds gave pitchers an unprecedented advantage over hitters. The "regulation" mound height was supposed to be 15" (set in 1904), but this wasn't strictly enforced in the mid-1960's, and mounds were rumored to be as high as 20" for teams that emphasized pitching (the reputed mound height at LA Dodger Stadium). Only 1,995 HR hit in MLB, the fewest since 1952. Bob Gibson won the NL MVP & CYA (22-9, post-1919 record 1.12 ERA, 268 SO, 34 GS, 28 CG, 13 SHO). Denny McLain won the AL MVP & CYA (31-6, 1.96 ERA, 280 SO, 28 CG), the first 30-game winner since 1934. Juan Marichal had 30 CG but received 0 CYA votes (26-9, 2.43 ERA). Many other pitchers had career years. On offense, Carl Yastrzemski's .301 AVG was the lowest to win a Batting Title in MLB history. The AL set a MLB record low with a .230 AVG, while the NL hit .243. Only 6 MLB players had a .300 AVG. No MLB players scored 100 runs in 1968. The last time this happened was in 1919 (The Dead Ball Era) .

1969 Expansion season, 4 teams: AL - Seattle Pilots, KC Royals; NL - , Montreal Expos. Big jump in offense. MLB HR increased 56% from 1,995 to 3,119. In reaction to the pitching dominance in 1968, the strike zone was reduced, and the pitchers mound lowered to 10", where it remains today. Saves added as an official statistic. The way Saves are calculated will change over the next few years. 6 No-Hitters are pitched, tying a post-1900 record set in the years 1908, 1915 and 1917.

1971 Pitchers dominated. 34 pitchers had ERA's under 3.00. Ron Hunt had post-1900 MLB record 50 HBP. 1972 Players' Strike for 8 games at the start of season. Pitchers dominated again, with 44 sub-3.00 ERA's. 1973 set MLB record with 383 Strikeouts, a record that still stands, but won the AL CYA . Designated Hitter used in AL for a 3 year trial period. AL AVG increased from .239 in 1972 to .259 in 1973. 1974 hit his 715th HR to break Babe Ruth's record. Oakland A's won 3rd straight World Series. 5-man pitching rotations started being used by some teams (all teams will switch to 5-man by 1980). 1975 Baseball switched to a cowhide cover because of increasing shortages of horsehide. was the first MLB player to win the MVP award and Rookie of the Year in the same season.

1976 Hank Aaron retired with a record 755 HR, and many still-standing records (1,477 XBH, 2,297 RBI, 6,856 TB). Joe Morgan won his 2nd consecutive NL MVP Award (.320, 27 HR, 111 RBI) for the , as the "Big Red Machine" won their 2nd consecutive World Series Championship, sweeping the NYY, 4-0. Designated Hitter in AL made permanent. Going forward, AL league-wide offensive stats will exceed NL.

Section 1 - Page 17 (P); 3 CYA Nolan Ryan (P) (P); 4 CYA (P); 5 GG 311 W, 3,640 SO, 2.86 ERA 324 W, 5,714 SO, 3.19 ERA 329 W, 4,136 SO, 3.22 ERA 318 W, 3,342 SO, 3.35 ERA 20 Wins x 5; 61 SHO 20 Wins x 2; 300 SO x 6 1 GG; 20 Wins x 6; 55 SHO 20 Wins x 3, 1 no-hitter 7 no-hitters, 12 one-hitters 1972 - 27 W, 310 SO, 1.97 121 Wins after age 40

Jim "Catfish" Hunter (P) (P) (3B) (3B); 3 MVP 1 CYA; 20 Wins x 5; 224 W 324 W, 3,574 SO, 3.26 ERA 2 GG; 3,010 H, .328 Avg 10 GG; 548 HR, 1,595 RBI 1 no-hitter () 5 one-hitters; 20 Wins x 1 200 H x 7 cons.; .300 x 13 40 HR x 3; 30 HR x 13

George Brett (3B) (CF) (OF) (OF) 1 MVP; 1 GG; 3,154 Hits 6 GG; 200 Hits x 5 5 GG; 3,141 Hits 1 MVP, 1 GG; 3,055 Hits .300 x 11; .305 Avg .300 x 8; .318 Avg .300 x 19; .338 Avg 1,406 SB, 2,295 R, .279

Paul Molitor (DH) (RF); 1 MVP (SS) Cal Ripken, Jr. (SS); 2 MVP 3,319 Hits, .306 Avg 563 HR; 40 HR x 2; 100 RBI x 6 2 MVP; 1 GG; 3,142 Hits 2 GG; 3,184 H, 431 HR

© Steve's Baseball Photography Pages: Seaver, Ryan, Carlton, P. Niekro, Hunter, Sutton, Boggs, Schmidt, R. Jackson, Yount. National Baseball Hall of Fame Library: Brett, Puckett, Molitor, Ripken. Photos by © Greg Eichelberger: Gwynn, Henderson.

Section 1 - Page 18 The Free Agency Era, 1977-1993

Free agency was introduced in 1977, which resulted in increased player movement between teams and increased player salaries. Players became entitled to file for "free agency" after their sixth major league season.

During this 17 year era, 13 different teams/franchises won World Series Championships (see pages 84-85) Stolen Bases increased dramatically. Both Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman stole over 100 bases 3 times. Prior to this, only Maury Wills (104 in 1962) and Lou Brock (118 in 1974) had 100 Stolen Bases in the 1900's. Artificial turf fields were used by about one-third of MLB teams. Runs per game increased to pre-1960 numbers.

5-man pitching rotations now used MLB-wide. Last 2 pitchers with 40 GS: (1982) & Charlie Hough (1987).

The 1980's were evenly balanced (parity) between pitchers and hitters. From 1981-1989 no more than 1 player hit 40 HR in any season, with the exception of 1987, when 4 players hit 40+ HR. During this era, starting pitchers completed 15% their games, and 2 players hit 50+ HR

1977 AL expansion season, with 2 teams added: The and . Rod Carew won the AL MVP with a .388 AVG (highest AVG since 1942). Lyman Bostock was 2nd with .336. hit 52 HR in winning the NL MVP . AL Home Runs increased 79% from 1,122 to 2,013. 1979 Brothers & Phil Niekro tied for the NL lead with 21 Wins. Phil also led the NL with 20 L & 44 GS. Don Baylor won the AL MVP . Keith Hernandez & were NL co-MVP 's (only time in history). Stargell won all 3 MVP's in 1979 (NLCS MVP & World Series MVP ), the only player in history to do so.

1980 AL MVP hit .390 (highest AVG since 1942). NL MVP Mike Schmidt hit a career best 48 HR.

1981 Players' Strike for 52 games (June-July) resulted in first & second half pennant winners in each league. was the first pitcher to win Cy Young Award & Rookie of the Year in same season. 1982 Rickey Henderson set new MLB records with 130 SB and 42 CS, but Robin Yount won the AL MVP . Cal Ripken, Jr., won AL Rookie of the Year . On May 30, he started his (future record) cons. game streak.

1984 Jim Palmer (268 wins and 3 Cy Young Awards ) retired after 19 seasons with the , without ever having given up a Grand Slam Home Run, despite allowing 303 HR (see page 267) .

1985 (20 yrs. old, in his 2nd season) won the NL CYA (NL leader with 24-4, 1.53 ERA, 268 SO, 16 CG). set a new MLB record in his next-to-last season with 4,192 career hits, passing Ty Cobb.

1986 Mike Schmidt won his 3rd NL MVP ; won both the AL MVP & CYA (24-4, 2.48 ERA, 238 SO).

1987 Huge HR season, but a 1 year anomaly. Many suspected a "lively ball" which MLB never admitted to. Home Runs increased by 17% over 1986, and dropped back down by 29% in 1988 (strike zone adjusted). More than 1/3 of all "everyday" players had HR totals in 1987 that would be career best HR seasons. Comparison of home runs by season: 1986 1987 1988 1989 MLB total 3,813 4,458 3,180 3,083 , 1987 NL MVP 20 49 24 21 , 1987 AL MVP 31 47 24 18 , 1987 NL HR runner-up 29 44 24 20 Mark McGwire, 1987 AL HR champ 3 (r) 49 32 33 hit a MLB record 6 Grand Slams in 1987 (he had 0 GSHR in his other 13 seasons).

1988 Strike zone expanded after all the 1987 HR. New Balk Rule (1988 only) caused a huge increase in Balks. 1990 7 No-Hitters were pitched in MLB, breaking the post-1900 record of 6 set in 1908, 1915, 1917 & 1969. 1991 7 No-Hitters were pitched again in MLB in 1991. Nolan Ryan had a record 7th career No-Hitter at age 44.

1992 St. Louis Cardinals set new MLB record with 16 consecutive errorless games (CIN had 15 in 1975) 1993 NL expansion season, with 2 teams added: The Rockies and Marlins. Scoring increased, and MLB Home Runs increased by 33%, from 3,038 in 1992 to 4,030. won his 3rd NL MVP in 4 yrs. (.336, 46 HR, 123 RBI); Frank Thomas won the AL MVP (41 HR). Nolan Ryan retired at age 46 with 0 CYA won, despite setting the following all-time MLB pitching records: Career: 7 No-hitters, 12 One-hitters, 2,795 BB, 5,714 SO, 277 WP, .204 Opp BA, 6.56 Hits / 9 IP Single Season: 383 Strikeouts (1973), Fewest Hits Allowed per 9 IP with 5.26 (1972).

Section 1 - Page 19 Barry Bonds (LF); 7 MVP Frank Thomas (1B); 2 MVP (3B); 3 MVP Ken Griffey, Jr. (CF); 1 MVP 8 GG; 762 HR, 1,996 RBI, .298 521 HR, 1,704 RBI, .301 2 GG; 613 HR, 1,831 RBI 10 GG; 630 HR, 1,836 RBI 40 HR x 8; 73 HR-2001 40 HR x 5; 43 HR-2000 40 HR x 8; 30 HR x 14, .303 40 HR x 7; 56 HR-1997 & 98 100 R & RBI x 12; .300 x 11 100 R x 9; 100 RBI x 11 100 R x 13; 100 RBI x 14 100 RBI x 8; .300 x 8; .284

Mark McGwire (1B) Rafael Palmeiro (1B, DH) (RF); 1 MVP (1B); 1 MVP 1 GG; 583 HR; 40 HR x 6 3 GG; 569 HR, 1,835 RBI, .288 40 HR x 7; 609 HR, .273 1 GG; 40 HR x 3; 449 HR, .297

Manny Ramirez (OF) (RF); 1 MVP (P); 1 CYA (P); 2 CYA 40 HR x 5; 555 HR, .313 40 HR x 2; 436 HR, .320 15 W x 6, 213 W; 154 SV 20 W x 5; 15 W x 10; 305 W 100 RBI x 12; 1,830 RBI 100 RBI x 10; .300 Avg x 13 3,084 SO, 3.33 ERA 25 SHO, 2,607 SO, 3.54 ERA

Randy Johnson (P); 5 CY A Greg (P); 4 CYA Roger Clemens (P); 7 CYA Pedro Martinez (P); 3 CYA 20 W x 3; 15 W x 11; 303 W 20 W x 2; 15 W x 18; 355 W 20 W x 6; 15 W x 12; 354 W 20 W x 2; 15 W x 7; 219 W 37 SHO, 4,875 SO, 3.29 ERA 18 GG; 35 SHO, 3.16 ERA 46 SHO, 4,672 SO, 3.12 ERA .687 WPCT.; 2.93 ERA

Photos by © Peggy Hughes: Thomas, Guerrero, Johnson. Photos by © Michael G. Baron: Rodriguez, Smoltz, Glavine, P. Martinez. Photos by © KeithAllisonPhoto.com: Griffey, Ramirez, Clemens. Photos by © Greg Eichelberger: McGwire, Maddux. Photo by © Christopher Ebdon: Bagwell. Photo by © Andy Monfried: Sosa. Public domain photo: Rafael Palmeiro.

Section 1 - Page 20 The Long Ball Era (The Juiced-Ball Era, The P.E.D.'s Era), 1994-2007

Home Runs and Strikeouts both increased dramatically during this era, as did the use of relief pitchers per game. Single season HR records were broken by Mark McGwire (70 HR in 1998) and Barry Bonds (73 HR in 2001). In just these 14 years, 141 players hit 40 HR in a season. In the 93 years from 1901-1993, 152 players hit 40 HR. This power surge has been attributed to many factors, such as: The use of illegal Performance Enhancing Drugs / Steroids (but not all power hitters or pitchers were known to use PED's). Increased strength training by players, and increased use of various legal supplements. Several new ballparks opened which were favorable to hitters (see page 28 for HR comparison by ballparks) . Availability of baseball bats made of maple which doesn't "soften" and the grain doesn't separate compared to ash. Maple bats were previously too heavy, but high-tech kilns in the 1990's reduced enough moisture to make them viable. But in 2007 & 2008, maple bats were shattering more frequently, causing safety issues for players and fans. Corked baseball bats, the most famous incident/player being Sammy Sosa and a single corked bat in 2003. The yarn in the baseball changed (, 2001). In a baseball, the rubber core/pill is tightly wrapped with 220 yards of 3 different types of wool yarn. Then 150 yards of fine white polyester-cotton blend yarn is used, which is a recycled product produced from discarded carpeting. Over the last few decades, carpet manufacturers increased the proportion of polyester being used. Polyester is water resistant and less affected by humidity. During this era, starting pitchers completed 6% of their games, and 23 players hit 50+ HR

1994 Started 3-Division format in both the NL and AL, with a "Wild Card" team, and a 3-round postseason. Players' Strike on August 12 ended the season at 115 games, with no playoffs or World Series. There was no League Champion for the first time since begain in 1871.

Until the strike, 1994 was on-pace to be a record-setting season offensively (10 players on a 40-HR pace). Tony Gwynn hit .394, the highest Avg in MLB since 1942. Matt Williams had 43 HR, on-pace for 61 HR. Jeff Bagwell won the NL MVP in a "career year" (110 G, 104 R, 39 HR, 116 RBI, .368 Avg, .451 OBP, .750 SLG). Frank Thomas won his 2nd consecutive AL MVP (113 G, 106 R, 38 HR, 101 RBI, .353 Avg, .487 OBP, .729 SLG).

Greg Maddux (ATL) had a NL leading 1.56 ERA. The Montreal Expos led the NL with a 3.56 team ERA. This was the first time in history that the leading individual was a full 2 points below the leading team ERA.

1995 Players' Strike continued from last season into late April. 1995 season shortened to 144 games. Cal Ripken, Jr. broke Lou Gehrig's record, with 2,131 consecutive games played. (100-44) became the first 100 game-winners in a season under 154 games. won their first W.S. Championship in 38 years, and 3rd overall since 1901 (1914, 1957) as their star pitcher, , won his 4th consecutive NL CYA (19-2, 1.63 ERA, 181 SO, 23 BB). 1996 Strike zone expanded, but huge HR season, as 17 players hit 40 HR, breaking the record of 8 set in 1961. Monterey, Mexico, August 16, first MLB game (SDP vs. NYM) ever played outside the U.S. or Canada. 1997 Inter-league regular season games between AL and NL teams started. The Florida Marlins, in just their 5th year in MLB, won a World Series (first "wild card" team in a W.S.) over the Cleveland Indians. 1998 Expansion season, with 2 teams added: NL - ; AL - Tampa Bay Devil Rays. MLB HR total increases to 5,064 HR, exceeding 5,000 for the first time. 13 players hit 40+ HR. Mark McGwire's 70 HR broke Roger Maris' HR record of 61. Sammy Sosa hit 66 HR & won the NL MVP . Cal Ripken, Jr. ended his record at 2,632 consecutive games played. Roger Clemens won the AL CYA . Tom Glavine was the 5th Atlanta Braves pitcher in 6 yrs. to win the CYA (Maddux, 1993-95; Smoltz, 1996). 1999 Mark McGwire hit 65 HR and Sammy Sosa hit 63 HR, but hit 45 HR and won the NL MVP . Pedro Martinez won AL CYA and Triple Crown (23-4; 2.07 ERA, 313 SO); won the NL CYA . New York Mets with only 68 errors committed, smashed the Baltimore Orioles' 1998 record of 81 errors. 2000 MLB peak HR season, with 5,693. Sammy Sosa hit 50 HR, leading 16 players with 40+ HR in 2000. Jeff Kent, with 33 HR, won the NL MVP , edging Barry Bonds, while Jason Giambi won the AL MVP . Pedro Martinez (1.74 ERA) set 3 MLB records (.167 Opp BA, 7.22 BR / 9 IP, .737 WHIP) & won the AL CYA . Tokyo, Japan, site of first MLB game (CHC vs. NYM) ever played outside the North American continent. Cincinnati Reds became the 2nd team in history (NY Yankees in 1932) to never get shut out in a season. New York Yankees won their 4th W.S. Championship in 5 years (1996, 1998, 1999), and 26th overall. 2001 Strike zone expanded, and pitching statistics improved. MLB HR drop to 5,458, from 5,693 in 2000. Barry Bonds won the NL MVP with 73 HR (broke Mark McGwire's record of 70 HR). Sammy Sosa hit 64 HR. Arizona Diamondbacks won a World Series in just their 4th year of existence over the New York Yankees. continued on next page>>> Section 1 - Page 21 (OF); 1 MVP (1B); 3 MVP (1B); 3 GG (1B, DH) 10 GG; Record 262 H in 2004 2 GG; 408 HR; .331 Avg 100 RBI x 5; 30 HR x 6 589 HR; 100 RBI x 9 (200 H, .300) x 10; .331; 383 SB (100 RBI, 30 HR, .300) x 10 .300 x 11; .324 Avg 30 HR x 12; 40 HR x 6

Derek Jeter (SS); 4 GG Magglio Ordonez (RF) David Ortiz (DH, 1B) (1B) 100 R x 13; 200 H x 7 .300 x 9; .312 Avg 40 HR x 3; 30 HR x 6 40 HR x 3; 30 HR x 11 .300 x 11; .314 Avg 30 HR x 4; 100 RBI x 7 100 RBI x 6 100 RBI x 9; 473 HR

Chipper Jones (3B); 1 MVP Eric Gagne (P); 1 CYA (P) (P); 7 GG 100 RBI x 9; 100 R x 8; .306 84 cons. Saves; 3.47 ERA 20 W x 2; 15 W x 8; 240 W 15 W x 11; 270 W

Mariano Rivera (P) (P) (P); 2 CYA, 1 GG (P) 40 Saves x 7; 559 Saves 40 Saves x 9; 601 Saves 20 W x 1; 15 W x 5; 133 W 20 W x 3; 15 W x 8; 216 W <1.99 ERA x 10; 2.23 ERA <2.99 ERA x 13; 2.87 ERA 1,877 SO, 3.10 ERA 20 SHO, 3,116 SO, 3.46 ERA

Photos by © KeithAllisonPhoto.com: Suzuki, Jeter, Ordonez, C. Jones, Pettitte, Mussina, Rivera, Santana. Photos by © Michael G. Baron: Pujols, Delgado. Photos by © Greg Eichelberger: Helton, Hoffman. Photos by © Peggy Hughes: Thome, Gagne. Photos by © Xiaolei Li (propheci flickr): Ortiz, Schilling, (prior page) Bonds

Section 1 - Page 22 The Long Ball Era, 1994-2007 - continued

2002 All-Star Game ended in a controversial 7-7 tie after 11 innings, as both teams ran out of players. hit a record 7 HR over 3 consecutive games (4, 1, 2). Green hit 42 HR for the season. Barry Bonds topped 600 HR and won his 5th NL MVP in 2002. Miguel Tejada won the AL MVP . Randy Johnson won his 5th CYA (4th consecutive), while won the AL CYA with a 23-5 record. Johnson won 24 games with 334 SO, edging ARI teammate Curt Schilling, with 23 Wins and 316 SO. set a MLB record with HR in 26 consecutive games. Their 230 HR led MLB in 2002. Angels defeated in the first World Series between 2 "wild card" teams.

2003 Federal Grand Jury investigated BALCO (nutritional supplements) for distribution of illegal substances. This will be the start of many on-going investigations by the government, the Senate & MLB itself. Prior to 2003, there were no MLB rules that prohibited use of PED's (Performance Enhancing Drugs). Roger Clemens became the 21st pitcher with 300 Wins & the 3rd pitcher with 4,000 Strikeouts. Eric Gagne won the NL CYA (55 SV, 0 BS, 1.20 ERA); won the AL CYA (22-7, 3.25 ERA, 204 SO). Barry Bonds, during his 6th MVP season, became the first player with 500 HR & 500 SB in his career. Albert Pujols edged out Todd Helton for the NL Batting Title, .3587 to .3585 (the closest margin in NL history). Seattle Mariners set a new MLB record with 65 errors committed, the fewest in a non-strike season. Florida Marlins, a "wild card" team, defeated the New York Yankees in the World Series, 4 games to 2.

2004 Barry Bonds won a record 7th Most Valuable Player Award, (4th consecutive MVP ) and set MLB records with a .609 OBP, 1.422 OPS, 232 BB, 120 IBB. Bonds had a record 19 IBB with the bases empty. Ichiro Suzuki set MLB records with 262 Hits (breaking George Sisler's 1920 record), and 225 Singles. Vlad Guerrero won the AL MVP ; Roger Clemens won a record 7th CYA ; Johan Santana won the AL CYA , and set a MLB single season record (since 1920) with 21 cons. Quality Starts (6+ IP with < 3 runs allowed). Eric Gagne had his record Save streak (without a Blown Save) end at 84 Saves (8/28/2002 - 7/3/2004). Boston Red Sox won their first World Championship since 1918, sweeping the St. Louis Cardinals, 4-0. The Red Sox were the third consecutive "wild card" team (non-Division Winner) to win the World Series. 2005 Albert Pujols won his first NL MVP award, after finishing 2nd twice to Barry Bonds earlier in the decade. Alex Rodriguez won his 2nd MVP award. Bartolo Colon (AL) & Chris Carpenter (NL) won their first CYA . Carlos Silva set a new MLB single season record with 0.43 walks allowed for every 9 . Chicago White Sox won their first World Championship since 1917, sweeping the , 4-0. MLB enacted their first "respectable" drug policy with penalties/suspensions. 2006 (7), Frank Thomas (6), Morgan Ensberg (6) & Jason (6), hit a HR in 6 consecutive games. From 2001-2006, this happened 10 times. From 1901-2000 (100 years) this happened only 13 times. Barry Bonds hit HR # 715 to pass Babe Ruth for second in all time HR, finishing the year with 734. The number of pitchers with an ERA under 3.00 dropped from 9 pitchers in 2005, to 2 pitchers in 2006. hit 58 HR & won his first NL MVP , and won his first MVP in the AL. won the NL CYA , while Johan Santana won his 2nd AL CYA & the pitching Triple Crown . Boston Red Sox had MLB record 17 consecutive errorless games (St. Louis Cardinals had 16 in 1992). St. Louis Cardinals won their first World Series since 1982, beating the Detroit Tigers, 4 games to 1. 2007 The Year of the Milestones. Barry Bonds broke Hank Aaron's career HR mark of 755 HR, with 762 HR. Sammy Sosa hit HR # 600, and Alex Rodriguez, Jim Thome and Frank Thomas all hit HR # 500. Ken Griffey, Jr. passed Frank Robinson for 6th on the all-time HR list with 593 HR. Tom Glavine became the 23rd pitcher with 300 Wins, while Roger Clemens was the 8th with 350 Wins. dominated the NL in winning the CYA and the pitching Triple Crown (19-6, 2.54 ERA, 240 SO). , at 23 yrs. 139 days, was youngest to hit 50 HR in a season (Willie Mays, 24 yrs. 137 days). Ryan Howard earned the dubious distinction of setting a new Strikeout record, as he "fanned" 199 times. and hit 20 Doubles, 20 Triples & 20 Home Runs in the 2007 season. Prior to 2007, 5 hitters in MLB history had accomplished this feat in a single season (see page 175) . Jimmy Rollins won his first NL MVP , while C.C. Sabathia won his first AL CYA (19-7, 3.21 ERA, 209 SO). And last but not least, Alex Rodriguez had a "monster" year, starting with an AL record 14 HR in April. He led the AL with 54 HR, 156 RBI, 143 R, 376 TB, 1.067 OPS & .645 SLG, earning his 3rd MVP award. MLB pitchers had an all-time low 112 Complete Games in 4,862 GS. Previous low was 144 CG in 2006. Florida Marlins, , Texas Rangers set new MLB record with 0 Complete Games. Boston Red Sox won their second World Series in 4 years, sweeping the Colorado Rockies, 4-0. Even with all of these HR milestones accomplished, 2007 was a "down year" for Home Runs. Only 5 MLB players hit 40 HR, the fewest since 1995. By comparison, 17 in 1996 & 16 in 2000 hit 40 HR. Some might speculate that this was the result of reduced steroids / performance enhancing drug use…?

Section 1 - Page 23 (P); 2 CYA Chris Carpenter (P); 1 CYA C.C. Sabathia (P); 1 CYA Roy Halladay (P); 2 CYA 250 SO x 2; 10.1 SO/9 IP 15 W x 5; <2.99 ERA x 2 15 W x 6; 200 SO x 2 15 W x 7; 169 Wins 3.04 ERA, 1.182 WHIP 133 Wins, 1,494 SO, 3.80 ERA 157 Wins, 3.57 ERA 58 CG, 19 SHO, 3.32 ERA

Francisco Rodriguez (P) Joe Nathan (P) (P) (P); 1 CYA 40 SV x 4; 268 SV, 2.50 ERA 30 Saves x 6; 247 Saves 14 W x 5; 200 SO x 3 22 W - 3 L, 2.54 in 2008 62 SV, 2.24 ERA in 2008 <1.99 ERA x 4; 2.75 ERA 91 Wins, 3.66 ERA 102 Wins, 3.85 ERA, 20 CG

Ryan Howard (1B); 1 MVP (1B, 3B) Carlos Beltran (OF); 3 GG Jimmy Rollins (SS); 1 MVP 100 RBI x 5; 40 HR x 4 100 RBI x 7; 30 HR x 6 100 RBI x 8; 100 R x 7 3 GG; 100 R x 5; 30 SB x 8 58 HR, 149 RBI, .313 in 2006 .300 x 5; .313 AVG 289 SB; 88.1% SB Pct. 326 SB; 83.1% SB Pct.

Prince Fielder (1B) (C); 1 MVP Mark Teixeira (1B); 3 GG David Wright (3B); 2 GG 100 RBI x 3; 30 HR x 4; .279 3 GG; .365 in 2009; .327 AVG (30 HR & 100 RBI) x 7; .286 (100 RBI & 25 HR) x 5; .305

Photos by © KeithAllisonPhoto.com: Sabathia, Halladay, F. Rodriguez, Nathan, Cabrera, Beltran, Mauer, Teixeira. Photos by © Michael G. Baron: Lee, Howard, Rollins, Wright. Photo by © Greg Eichelberger: Fielder. Photo by © Adam P. Fagan: Haren. Photo by © Brock Fleeger: Lincecum. Public domain photo: Carpenter.

Section 1 - Page 24 A Transition to a New Era of Stronger Pitching & Defense, 2008-2010

Home Runs decreased significantly during this 3-year period, and other offensive numbers declined as well (page 33). Stronger drug testing for performance enhancing drugs (PED's), along with an infusion of many young new pitchers with strong arms in the last few years are amongst the potential reasons for this transition from The Long Ball Era .

This new era is seeing a renewed emphasis on Player Development, Pitching & Fielding not seen since the 1960's. The 2008, 2009 & 2010 Years in Review in the next 3 pages reinforce this significant shift backed up by the numbers. In the final 2 years of The Long Ball Era , from 2006-2007, just 3 pitchers had an ERA < 3.00 (2 in 2006 & 1 in 2007). This tied 1929-1930 for the fewest ever for a 2 year period since 1901. (see pages 32-33) By contrast, in the 2 years from 2009-2010, 26 pitchers had an ERA < 3.00 (11 in 2009 & 15 in 2010). From 2008-2010, 35 pitchers had 200+ Strikeouts (10 each in 2008 & 2009, and 15 in 2010). This total of 35 pitchers over a 3 year period has only been exceeded once since 1901, when 39 pitchers from 1967-1969 had 200+ SO.

More emphasis placed on defense. Prior to 1999, the fewest errors committed by a team was 81 (in a non-strike season). In the 10 years from 1999-2008, 10 teams had less than 79 errors in a season (3 teams in 2003 & 2 teams in 2007). In just 2 years from 2009-2010, 10 teams had less than 79 errors in a season (a record 5 teams each in 2009 & 2010).

Many superstars retired after the 2007 & 2008 seasons who began playing from the mid-1980's to the early 1990's. Retiring hitters included: Barry Bonds, Sammy Sosa, , Frank Thomas, & Richie Sexson Retiring pitchers included: Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, Roger Clemens, with Randy Johnson & John Smoltz in 2009. This should make the 2013 and 2014 induction years at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown very exciting.

The next wave of rising stars has been coming on strong over the last 4-5 years, with many of the season-ending awards going to first and second time winners. For example, the Gold Glove Award for fielding excellence is awarded annually to 9 NL and 9 AL players, one for each defensive position (3 for , regardless of LF, CF, RF). In the 4 seasons from 2007-2010, the number of first or second time winners averaged 12 out of 18 players. In the prior 4 seasons from 2003-2006, the average number of first or second time winners was only 6.75 out of 18.

During this era, starting pitchers completed 3% of their games, and 1 player hit 50+ HR The 2008 Season in Review

Philadelphia Phillies won their second World Series (first in 1980), defeating first-timers . Both the Phillies and Rays were Division winners, ending 6 consecutive W.S. with a "wild card" team. Florida Marlins had all 4 hit at least 25 HR in a season, a new MLB record (see page 109). Oakland A's had 5 players (w/500+ TPA) hit below a .240 AVG (.218-.237) for the first time in history. Only 2 other teams since 1901 had 5 players hit below a .250 AVG: SFG in 1985 and CWS in 1967. Florida Marlins set a MLB record with 0 Complete Games in 301 consecutives games, 9/2006-8/2008. Chicago Cubs became the first MLB team to go 100 years without a World Series Championship (1908). Instant Replay was instituted for umpires late in the season, and the first use took place on 9/3/2008. Pitching Pitching improves: 8 pitchers had ERA under 3.00 (1 in 2007); 4 pitchers had 20 Wins (1 in 2007). in 2008 Francisco Rodriguez had a record 62 Saves, breaking Bobby Thigpen's 1990 record of 57 SV. Tim Lincecum won the NL CYA (18-5, 2.62 ERA, 265 SO); Cliff Lee won his first AL CYA (22-3, 2.54 ERA). Brad Ziegler set a MLB record with 39 consecutive scoreless innings to start a career (all in relief). Greg Maddux became the 9th pitcher to reach 350 career Wins, retiring with 355 at the end of 2008. John Smoltz was the 16th pitcher to reach 3,000 SO; Trevor Hoffman had a record 554 career Saves. Batting Active Career HR Leaders: Ken Griffey, Jr. reached 611 HR (5th all-time), Alex Rodriguez, 553 HR (12th), in 2008 Jim Thome, 541 HR (14th), , 527 HR (17th), and Frank Thomas, 521 HR (19th). Mark Reynolds set a new MLB record with 204 SO, and Jack Cust set a new AL record with 197 SO, as a record 90 hitters had 100+ SO in a season, eclipsing the old record of 89 hitters set in 2007. Ryan Howard had 48 HR & 146 RBI. Only 2 players hit 40 HR, the fewest since the 1994 strike season. Albert Pujols won his 2nd NL MVP (37 HR, .357 AVG); won the AL MVP (213 H, .326 AVG). Fielding Jason Veritek became the first catcher to catch 4 different no-hitters (2001, 2002, 2007, 2008). in 2008 New records: Kevin Youkilis, 1B (238 cons. errorless games); Placido Polanco, 2B (186 cons. errorless games). Rookies NL ROY - Geovany Soto (c, CHC, .285, 23 HR, 86 RBI); AL ROY - (3b, TBR, .272, 27 HR, 85 RBI). in 2008 Other NL Rookies: (1b, CIN, .297, 24 HR, 84 RBI); Jair Jurrjens (p, ATL, 13-10, 3.68 ERA); (of, CIN, .254, 21 HR, 52 RBI); (p, CIN, 9-14, 4.81 ERA, 158 SO). Other AL Rookies: (p, DET, 13-7, 3.73 ERA); Jose Aredondo (rp, LAA, 10-2, 1.62 ERA); Alexei Ramierz (2b, CWS, .290, 21 HR, 77 RBI, rookie record 4 GS HR); Brad Ziegler (rp, OAK, 3-0, 1.06 ERA)

Section 1 - Page 25 The 2009 Season in Review

New York Yankees had the highest MLB payroll for the 13th consecutive year (page 39) , and they ended 8 years of W.S. futility (2000) by winning the World Series over the , 4-2 (page 85).

New York Yankees had a 100-Win season for a MLB record 19th time (see page 95 for all teams rankings) . Two new ballparks opened in 2009. Of the 30 MLB parks, the new Yankee Stadium had the most HR hit in that stadium with 237, while the new Citifield (NY Mets) was 25th with 130 HR. NY Yankees hit 244 total HR: 136 HR in a MLB record 73 of 81 home games, and 108 HR on the road. The 2009 season began with a new record streak, as the opened with a MLB record 13 consecutive home wins to start a season (see page 96).

All-Star Game was won by the American League for the 12th consecutive year (+ 1 tie game).

All-Time Wins by a : (3rd) Tony LaRussa, 2,552; (4th) , 2,413; (5th) , 2,246. Pitching Randy Johnson became the 24th pitcher with 300 Wins, finishing his injury-shortened season with 303. in 2009 Trevor Hoffman extended his MLB career record to 591 SV; was a distant 2nd with 526. started 2009 with 3 SV, extending his streak to 47 Saves without a BS since late 2007, but finished the season with 31 SV and a MLB leading 11 Blown Saves, almost tying the MLB record of 12 BS. Tim Lincecum (15-7, 2.48 ERA, 261 SO) won his 2nd consecutive NL Cy Young Award in only his second full season, over Chris Carpenter and in one of the closest CYA votes ever (page 344) . (16-8, 2.16 ERA, 242 SO) won his first AL CYA over Felix Hernandez (19-5, 2.49 ERA, 217 SO). 2 No-hitters pitched in 2009: pitched the 17th perfect game in history on July 23, and Jonathan Sanchez (SFG) just missed a perfect game, as a runner reached base on an 8th inning error. Batting Active Career HR Leaders: (5th) Ken Griffey, Jr., 630; (8th) Alex Rodriguez, 583; (12th) Jim Thome, 564 in 2009 (15th) Manny Ramirez, 546; (24th) , 509 (see page 132 & pages 220-224 for all 500 HR hitters) Andre Eithier tied the MLB record of 4 Walk-off HR in a season (Jimmie Foxx, 1940 & Roy Sievers, 1957). Ian Kinsler (TEX) became the 5th player in history to hit a Lead-off HR & Walk-off HR in the same game. Josh Willingham (WSN) was the 3rd NL player in history to hit 2 Grand Slam Home Runs in 1 game. Joe Maurer won his first AL MVP (28 HR, 96 RBI, and AL-leading .365 AVG, .444 OBP & .587 SLG). Albert Pujols won his 3rd NL MVP award (.327 AVG, 135 RBI, and NL-leading 47 HR, .443 OBP, .658 SLG, 5 GSHR). Pujols, in his 9th season, had a .300+ AVG, 30+ HR and 100+ RBI for the 9th consecutive year. Ichiro Suzuki had a .300+ AVG, 200+ Hits, and won a Gold Glove Award for the 9th consecutive year. Alex Rodriguez started 2009 with streaks of 11 consecutive seasons with 100 RBI & 30 HR that seemed to be over, as he started his final game in 2009 still 2 HR and 7 RBI short of those marks. But in a 10-run 6th inning he hit a 3-run HR, and a GS HR, giving him the improbable 2 HR and 7 RBI he needed. Mark Reynolds set new MLB season records with 223 SO, and SO in 33.7% of his Plate Appearances. Seth Smith (COL) had the 2nd best single season PH AVG ever with a .472 (17-36), behind only Ed Kranepool in 1974, .486 (17-35). Smith was at .500 until making outs in his last 2 PH appearances. Ichiro Suzuki extended his MLB career record with the Lowest GIDP ratio with 1 GIDP every 141 AB. Carlos Beltran improved his MLB career record SB% to 88.3%, with 286 SB & only 38 CS. tied a MLB record with 6 SB in a game, and started 2009 with 30 consecutive SB before being CS (May 30), including 8 consecutive games with a SB. He had 60 SB & 16 CS in 2009. Jayson Werth became the 49th player (first since 1996) to steal 2nd, 3rd & Home in one inning (page 135). Season HR records tied: NY Yankees, 7 players with 20+ HR; Phillies, 4 players with 30+ HR (page 108) . Fielding Albert Pujols had 185 assists at 1B, breaking Bill Buckner's 1985 MLB record of 184 assists at 1B. in 2009 Kevin Kouzmanoff (SDP) set MLB records for Third Basemen with only 3 errors & .990 FPCT (page 331). Kouzmanoff's errors (all as a 3B) in his first 3 full MLB seasons were: 22 (2007); 11 (2008); 3 (2009). In April, the Philadelphia Phillies had a team record 12 consecutive errorless games, 8th best in history. In May, the New York Yankees set a new MLB record with 18 consecutive errorless games (see page 122) . 5 teams committed < 79 errors (PIT-73; PHI-76; TOR- 76; MIN-76; HOU-78) setting a new MLB record. The previous record was 3 teams in 2003. Rookies NL ROY - Chris Coghlan (of, FLA, .321, 9 HR, 84 R; Aug-47 H, Sep-47 H, most in 1 month by NL rookie since 1954). in 2009 Other NL Rookies: Garrett Jones (1b, PIT, .293, 21 HR, 49 RBI); Casey McGehee (2b, MlL, .301, 16 HR, 66 RBI); Andrew McCutchen (of, PIT, .286, 74 R, 26 2B, 22 SB); Tommy Hansen (p, ATL, 11-4, 2.89 ERA, 116 SO); J. A. Happ (p, PHI, 12-4, 2.93 ERA, 119 SO); Randy Wells (p, CHC, 12-10, 3.05 ERA, 104 SO). AL ROY - Andrew Bailey (rp, OAK, 6-3, 1.84 ERA, 26 SV; was the only AL rookie selected to 2009 All-Star Game). Other AL Rookies: Gordon Beckham (3b, CWS, .270, 14 HR, 63 RBI); Elvis Andrus (ss, TEX, .267, 72 R, 33 SB); (p, DET, 14-9, 3.96 ERA); Jeff Niemann (p, TBR, 13-6, 3.94 ERA); Nolan Reimold (of, BAL, 15 HR)

Section 1 - Page 26 The 2010 Season in Review MLB Pitching took another leap forward, from the start of the 2010 season through the World Series. San Francisco Giants won their first W.S. Championship since 1954, and their 6th overall since 1901. SFG were 11-4 with a 2.47 ERA in the postseason. Their 4 starting pitchers ranged from 21-27 yrs. old. Texas Rangers won their first AL Pennant since joining the AL in 1961 as the Washington Senators.

SFG pitchers had an amazing September, with the 6th best single-month (> 20 games) ERA since 1920. CLE-1.42, 5/1969; LAD-1.59, 9/1965; CHC-1.63, 4/1963; BRO-1.71, 5/1920; NYY-1.76, 9/1952; SFG-1.78, 9/2010 In Opponents BA that month, SFG-.182 OBA, 9/2010, were second only to CLE-.174 OBA, 5/1968, since 1920.

All-Star Game was won by the National League for the first time in 14 years (1996).

New York Yankees had the highest MLB payroll for the 14th consecutive year (page 39).

All-Time Wins by a Manager: (3rd) Tony LaRussa, 2,638; (4th) Bobby Cox, 2,504; (5th) Joe Torre, 2,326. Pitching 15 pitchers had 200+ Strikeouts, tying a 41 year old record (1969). The next highest was 12 (pages 32-33). in 2010 15 pitchers had an ERA under 3.00. 9 of those pitchers were 26 years old or younger. 2010 Strikeout rate was 7.13 SO per 9 IP, a new MLB record. There were 329 Team Shutouts, the most in 38 years (1972, 357 SHO). There were 62 games played with a 1-0 score, the most in 34 years (1976, 72 games). 23 One-hitters were pitched, the most in a season in 22 years (1988). MLB teams collectively allowed less than 1 HR per game for the first time in 18 years (1992). 5 No-Hitters were pitched in 2010, the most since a record 7 were pitched in 1990 and again in 1991. For the first time since 1901, 2 Perfect Games were pitched in the same season, just 20 days apart, on May 9 by (OAK, 4 - TBR, 0), and on May 29 by Roy Halladay (PHI, 1 - CIN, 0). Then just 4 days later on June 2, Armando Galarraga (DET) retired the first 26 batters to face him, and with 2 outs in the 9th inning, the batter was ruled safe with an infield single (that was clearly an out in TV replays). The other 3 No-Hitters: Ubaldo Jimenez, (COL) 6 BB; , (ARI) 8 BB; , (TBR) 1 BB.

Roy Halladay pitched the 2nd No-Hitter in MLB post-season history (Don Larsen, NYY, 1956, Perfect Game). Halladay capped his season by winning the NL Cy Young Award (21-10, 2.44 ERA, 219 SO, 9 CG, 4 SHO). Trevor Hoffman retired with MLB career record 601 SV; Mariano Rivera is 2nd with 559 SV, only 42 behind. (FLA) had 19 cons. Quality Starts (6+ IP with < 3 runs allowed), 1 off the NL record since 1920. Felix Hernandez (SEA) won the AL CYA (with a 13-12 record, 2.27 ERA, 232 SO), despite playing for the Seattle Mariners, the worst team in the AL with 101 losses. His 13 wins were the lowest ever by a CYA winner, breaking the AL (Zack Greinke, 16 W) and ML (Tim Lincecum, 15 W) records set in 2009. This further reinforced the decreased emphasis now placed on Wins in determining the CYA winner.

Batting Active Career HR Leaders: (5th) Ken Griffey, Jr., 630; (6th) Alex Rodriguez, 613; (8th) Jim Thome, 589. in 2010 Jose Bautista (TOR) hit 54 HR (one of only 2 hitters with 40 HR). His previous high over 7 years was 16 HR. Albert Pujols hit 42 HR in his 10th season, with 10 year streaks for: .300+ AVG, 30+ HR, 100+ RBI Ichiro Suzuki had a .300+ AVG, 200+ Hits, and won a Gold Glove Award for the 10th consecutive year. Alex Rodriguez extended his MLB record streaks to 13 consecutive years with 100+ RBI & 30+ HR. Joey Votto won the NL MVP (.324, 37 HR, 113 RBI); won the AL MVP (.359, 32 HR, 100 RBI). set a new career record with 23 PH HR; Jim Thome, tied MLB record 12 career Walk-off HR. 3 batters had < .205 AVG (also happened in 1937, 1968) & 2 batters had < .199 AVG (also happened in 1940). Fielding Defense keeps improving, as well-positioned & better-informed fielders "take away" hits from batters. in 2010 5 teams had < 79 errors (NYY-69; SDP-72; CIN- 72; SFG-73; MIN-78) tying the MLB record set in 2009. Only 1 of these 5 (MIN) was amongst the teams to accomplish this same record the prior year. NYY had a 12 game errorless streak in 2010 (CIN, MIN, SFG, PHI & SDP all had 11 game errorless streaks). Chris Snyder set MLB fielding record for Catchers (733 cons. errorless Chances Accepted over 242 games). Mike Redmond set MLB fielding record for Catchers (253 cons. errorless games). Casey Kotchman set 2 MLB fielding records for First Basemen (274 cons. errorless games & 2,379 cons. CA). Franklin Gutierrez set season MLB fielding record for Outfielders (most OF , 413, with 0 E, 1.000 FPCT). Rookies NL ROY - Buster Posey (c, SFG, 108 G, .305, 18 HR, 67 RBI; NL July Player of Month, 21-Game Hit Streak in July). in 2010 Other Top NL Rookies: Gaby Sanchez (1b, FL, .273, 19 HR; 85 RBI); Jaime Garcia (p, STL, 13-8, 2.70, 132 SO); (p, WSN, 5-3, 2.91 ERA, 68 IP, 92 SO; In first MLB game: 7 IP, 14 SO, 0 BB, 7 consecutive SO); Jason Heyward (of, ATL, .277, 18 HR, 72 RBI, HR in 1st AB); Aroldis Chapman (p, CIN, up to 105 MPH); Madison Bumgarner (p, SFG, 7-6, 3.00); Daniel Hudson (p, ARI, 8-2, 2.45); Mike Stanton (of, FLA, 22 HR). AL ROY - Neftali Feliz (rp, TEX, 4-3, 2.73 ERA, MLB Rookie Record 40 SV; helped Rangers get to the World Series). Other AL Rookies: John Axford (rp, SEA, 8-2, 2.48 ERA, 24 SV); Austin Jackson (of, DET,.293, 103 R, 181 Hits).

Section 1 - Page 27 Average # of HR Hit in 30 Current Ballparks - in last 15 years 1996-2010

Did the newer ballparks built since 1992 contribute to the increase in Home Runs since 1993? The "Long Ball Era" started in 1994, but because the Players Strike in 1994-1995 shortened those seasons, this comparison starts with the 1996 season, as a "stable" period with full seasons played in the last 15 years.

This is not a comparison of teams, but of their home ballparks relative to the number of home runs hit there by the home and visting teams combined . The highlighted column shows the average # of HR hit per year in that park.

This is comparing only the 30 ballparks currently in use through the 2010 season.

Of the 8 pre-1992 built ballparks still used in MLB, only the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field is in the Top 10 below.

Year # Years HR hit in Park used for that Park In the last 15 seasons: Home Team Current Ballpark Opened HR Avg Annual Avg. High Low 2010

1 New York Yankees (AL) Yankee Stadium 2009 2 230 237 223 223

2 Colorado Rockies (NL) Coors Field 1995 15 219 303 168 187 3 Cincinnati Reds (NL) Great American Ball Park 2003 8 217 246 184 184 4 Philadelphia Phillies (NL) 2004 7 211 241 177 177

5 Chicago White Sox (AL) U.S. Cellular Field 1991 15 209 272 151 190 6 Texas Rangers (AL) Ameriquest Field 1994 15 206 245 167 174

7 Milwaukee Brewers (NL) Miller Park 2001 10 191 232 149 196 8 Baltimore Orioles (AL) Oriole Park Camden Yards 1992 15 190 229 152 178

9 Chicago Cubs (NL) Wrigley Field 1916 15 188 233 153 161 10 Houston Astros (NL) Minute Maid Park 2000 11 188 266 129 129 11 Toronto Blue Jays (AL) / Skydome 1989 15 186 233 125 233 12 Arizona Diamondbacks (NL) Chase Field 1998 13 183 228 158 201

13 Cleveland Indians (AL) Progressive Field 1994 15 172 219 134 134

14 Los Angeles Angels (AL) Angel Stadium of Anaheim 1966 15 169 243 129 137 15 Tampa Bay Devil Rays (AL) Tropicana Field 1998 13 168 199 152 162 16 Boston Red Sox (AL) Fenway Park 1912 15 167 214 143 169 17 Oakland A's (AL) 1968 15 163 203 108 108 18 Kansas City Royals (AL) Kauffman Stadium 1973 15 162 209 123 142 19 Detroit Tigers (AL) 2000 11 162 202 122 141

20 Atlanta Braves (NL) Turner Field 1997 14 158 195 124 134 21 Los Angeles Dodgers (NL) Dodger Stadium 1962 15 155 194 111 128 22 Washington Nationals (NL) Nationals Park 2008 3 153 162 148 150 23 Seattle Mariners (AL) SAFECO Field 1999 *11.5 151 179 104 104

24 (NL) PNC Park 2001 10 144 161 130 130 25 Florida Marlins (NL) Sun Life Stadium 1987 15 142 189 109 122 26 St. Louis Cardinals (NL) Busch Stadium II 2006 5 142 176 120 122

27 San Francisco Giants (NL) AT&T Park 2000 11 137 171 114 139 28 San Diego Padres (NL) PETCO Park 2004 7 132 167 117 125

29 New York Mets (NL) Citi Field 2009 2 120 130 110 110

30 Minnesota Twins (AL) Target Field 2010 1 116 116 116 116

* The Seattle Mariners moved into SAFECO Field halfway through the 1999 season

The two New York ballparks that opened in 2009 ranked at the very top and bottom of this list.

These numbers are not necessarily a reflection of a single dominant HR hitter skewing the totals. San Francisco's AT&T Park is ranked 27th out of 30, in spite of this being Barry Bonds' home park from 2000-2007. See next page for additional examples

Section 1 - Page 28 Home Runs - Home vs. Away - by the Top 15 Single Season HR Hitters

In 2006, Ryan Howard led MLB with 58 HR for the Phillies.

His home park, Citizens Bank Park, was ranked 3rd out of 30 MLB ballparks for HR hit-and-allowed (233) in 2006. Does that make this ballpark a "hitters' park" or was this because of Ryan Howard's home runs skewing the total ? 2006 at home: The Phillies hit 112 HR and their pitchers allowed 121 HR (233 home HR). 2006 on road: The Phillies hit 104 HR and their pitchers allowed 90 HR (194 road HR). 39 more HR hit at home Howard hit 29 HR at home and 29 HR on the road, so the home-to-road differences weren't influenced by him at all, and his home ballpark didn't seem to be the same advantage for him that it was for other hitters.

In 2001, Barry Bonds set a MLB record with 73 HR for the Giants.

His home park, Pac Bell Park, was ranked 29th out of 30 MLB ballparks for HR hit-and-allowed (146) in 2001. This was in spite of the fact that he had just set a MLB record with 73 Home Runs in the 2001 season. Does that make this ballpark a "pitchers' park" and if so, was Barry Bonds at a disadvantage in his home games ? 2001 at home: The Giants hit 97 HR and their pitchers allowed 49 HR (146 home HR). 2001 on road: The Giants hit 138 HR and their pitchers allowed 96 HR (234 road HR). 88 more HR hit on road (see page 29 for more details on AT&T Park / Pac Bell Park's 2001 season, ranked 9th best pitcher's park in MLB history. Bonds hit 37 HR at home and 36 HR on the road, so the home-to-road differences weren't influenced by him at all, and his home ballpark didn't seem to be the same disadvantage for him that it was for other hitters.

Comparing the Top 15 all-time single-season HR hitters, and their home vs. away home run totals:

All-Time Top 15 Single Season HR Hitters Total HR hit in parks at: Player Team LG Year HR Home Road Diff. Home Road Diff.

1 Barry Bonds SFG NL 2001 73 37 36 +1 146 234 -88 2 Mark McGwire STL NL 1998 70 38 32 +6 196 178 +18

3 Sammy Sosa CHC NL 1998 66 35 31 +4 199 193 +6 4 Mark McGwire STL NL 1999 65 37 28 +9 187 168 +19 5 Sammy Sosa CHC NL 2001 64 34 30 +4 170 188 -18 6 Sammy Sosa CHC NL 1999 63 33 30 +3 222 188 +34 7 Roger Maris NYY AL 1961 61 30 31 -1 171 206 -35 8 Babe Ruth NYY AL 1927 60 28 32 -4 113 87 +26

9 Babe Ruth NYY AL 1921 59 32 27 +5 117 68 +49 10 Ryan Howard PHI NL 2006 58 29 29 0 233 194 +39 10 Mark McGwire OAK/STL AL/NL 1997 58 30 28 +2 330 332 -2 10 Hank Greenberg DET AL 1938 58 39 19 +20 142 105 +37 10 Jimmie Foxx PHA AL 1932 58 31 27 +4 189 95 +94 14 Alex Rodriguez TEX AL 2002 57 34 23 +11 245 179 +66 14 Luis Gonzalez ARI NL 2001 57 26 31 -5 228 175 +53

19 Jose Bautista TOR AL 2010 54 33 21 +12 233 174 +59

MLB records in yellow

The only players with a significantly positive home park impact amongst these 15 were: Hank Greenberg in 1938, who had twice as many home runs at home as on the road (+20) Alex Rodriguez in 2002 (+11). Mark McGwire in 1999 (+9) and in 1998 (+6)

Jose Bautista, who led the AL in home runs in 2010 with 54, was also impacted positively by his home ballpark (+12). There were also 59 more HR hit & allowed by the Blue Jays in their home games than in their road games in 2010.

See the next two pages, for a comparison of all MLB ballparks since 1871, with the biggest single season differences between home runs at home ballparks vs. on the road.

See Section 5 - Page 170, for the biggest individual batter HR disparities for home vs. road games.

Section 1 - Page 29 Biggest Single Season HR Differences (home vs. road parks) 1871-2010

Comparing the number of HR hit & allowed by a team in their home park, to the number of HR hit & allowed by that same team in their road games Biggest Hitters' Advantages at Home Ball Parks

HR in HR in Home Home Home Road vs. Road Home Ballpark Team Year Park Parks Difference 1 Lake Front Park II CHC 1884 197 29 168 See page 9 for more details 2 Coors Field COL 1999 303 157 146 Coors Field is on this list 6 times 3 Los Angeles Wrigley Field LAA 1961 248 121 127 Only used in first season by LAA 4 Cleveland Municipal Stadium CLE 1970 236 110 126 5 Coors Field COL 1996 271 148 123 6 Coors Field COL 1995 241 119 122 First season in use 7 IV NYG 1944 161 48 113 Polo Grounds IV is on this list 9 times 8 Coors Field COL 2000 245 137 108 8 Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium ATL 1977 208 100 108 A-FC Stadium is on this list 4 times 10 PHA 1922 162 56 106 11 PHI 1922 155 50 105 Baker Bowl is on this list 4 times 12 Wrigley Field CHC 1985 202 104 98 Wrigley Field is on this list 4 times 13 Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium ATL 1978 176 79 97 14 Polo Grounds IV NYM 1962 213 118 95 Only used in first 2 seasons by NYM 15 Shibe Park PHA 1932 189 95 94 15 Baker Bowl PHI 1923 153 59 94 17 Kansas City Muni. Stadium KCA 1964 239 147 92 Fence adjustments made after 1964 17 Los Angeles Mem. Coliseum LAD 1960 186 94 92 Only used in first 4 seasons by LAD 19 Polo Grounds IV NYG 1942 147 56 91 20 Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium ATL 1982 181 91 90 21 Polo Grounds IV NYG 1941 137 48 89 22 Coors Field COL 2002 232 145 87 23 Baker Bowl PHI 1932 157 72 85 24 Coors Field COL 2001 268 184 84 25 Kingdome SEA 1980 173 90 83 25 Sportsman's Park III SLB 1925 146 63 83 27 Wrigley Field CHC 1976 155 73 82 27 Crosley Field CIN 1954 199 117 82 27 Polo Grounds IV NYG 1952 177 95 82 27 Polo Grounds IV NYG 1939 142 60 82 27 Polo Grounds IV NYG 1938 147 65 82 27 Polo Grounds IV NYG 1931 127 45 82 33 Polo Grounds IV NYG 1951 204 123 81 33 Briggs Stadium DET 1946 143 62 81 33 Shibe Park PHA 1921 124 43 81 36 Wrigley Field CHC 1970 201 121 80 36 Kansas City Muni. Stadium KCA 1958 184 104 80 38 U.S. Cellular Field CWS 2004 272 194 78 39 Wrigley Field CHC 1984 156 79 77 39 Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium ATL 1970 211 134 77 39 Baker Bowl PHI 1925 147 70 77

Kansas City's Municipal Stadium made both lists twice: "Hitters Park" (1958, 1964) and "Pitchers Park" (1966, 1967). 239 HR were hit there in 1964 (147 HR in road games), and only 45 HR in 1966 (131 HR in road games). In 1965, they moved the fences further out by 39' in left field, 45' in left center field and 11' in center field. Then in 1966, the 10' fence/screen heights were raised to 22' in left & center, and 40' in right. After 1967, the K.C. A's moved to Oakland…

Section 1 - Page 30 Biggest Single Season HR Differences (home vs. road parks) 1871-2010

Comparing the number of HR hit & allowed by a team in their home park, to the number of HR hit & allowed by that same team in their road games Biggest Pitchers' Advantages at Home Ball Parks

HR in HR in Home Home Home Road vs. Road Home Ballpark Team Year Park Parks Difference 1 Astrodome HOU 1965 57 163 -106 Astrodome is on this list 7 times 2 Forbes Field PIT 1957 73 177 -104 Forbes Field is on this list 6 times 3 Milwaukee County Stadium MLN 1954 72 173 -101

4 Griffith Stadium WAS 1953 41 140 -99 Griffith Stadium is on this list 7 times 5 Forbes Field PIT 1958 81 176 -95 6 Griffith Stadium WAS 1949 34 126 -92 7 Forbes Field PIT 1966 96 187 -91 8 Griffith Stadium WAS 1955 45 134 -89 9 AT&T Park / Pac Bell Park SFG 2001 146 234 -88 Second season in use 10 Astrodome HOU 1967 63 150 -87 11 AT&T Park / Pac Bell Park SFG 2002 114 200 -86 11 Kansas City Muni. Stadium KCA 1966 45 131 -86 13 Astrodome HOU 1983 54 137 -83 13 Chavez Ravine (Dodgers) LAD 1962 86 169 -83 First season in use 13 Griffith Stadium WAS 1950 46 129 -83 16 Kansas City Muni. Stadium KCA 1967 57 137 -80 16 Comerica Park DET 2000 137 217 -80 First season in use 18 Chavez Ravine (Angels) LAA 1963 68 147 -79 Second season in use 19 Astrodome HOU 1977 73 151 -78 20 Candlestick Park SFG 1960 80 157 -77 First season in use 21 Astrodome HOU 1984 47 123 -76 21 Chavez Ravine (Angels) LAA 1964 63 139 -76 21 Griffith Stadium WSA 1961 87 163 -76 Only used in first season by WSA 21 Forbes Field PIT 1954 64 140 -76 LF fence moved back 30' in 1954 25 San Diego Stadium SDP 1970 124 197 -73 Second season in use 25 Milwaukee County Stadium MLN 1953 95 168 -73 27 Crosley / Redlands Field CIN 1932 22 94 -72 28 Chavez Ravine (Dodgers) LAD 1965 67 138 -71 28 Milwaukee County Stadium MLN 1957 126 197 -71 30 Astrodome HOU 1987 97 166 -69 30 Forbes Field PIT 1955 82 151 -69 30 Braves Field BSN 1950 104 173 -69 34 Progressive Field CLE 2009 138 206 -68 34 Anaheim Stadium CAL 1970 100 168 -68 34 Milwaukee County Stadium MLN 1955 126 194 -68 34 Griffith Stadium WAS 1951 48 116 -68 38 Forbes Field PIT 1969 74 141 -67 38 Crosley / Redlands Field CIN 1930 41 108 -67 40 Kauffman Stadium KCR 2004 146 212 -66 40 Astrodome HOU 1991 71 137 -66 40 Griffith Stadium WAS 1952 31 97 -66 43 Target Field MIN 2010 116 181 -65 First season in use

Adjustments to fence distances are sometimes made in the first 2 seasons after a ballpark is opened. An example of this is San Francisco's Candlestick Park which opened in 1960. In that first season, the Giants hit and allowed 80 HR at home and 157 HR in their road games (ranked 20th above). After the season, they moved their fences 32' closer in left center and right center fields, and 10' closer in center field. In 1961, the Giants hit & allowed 174 HR at home, and hit & allowed 161 HR in their road games (much more balanced).

Section 1 - Page 31 Year-to-Year MLB-wide Comparison # # Pitchers with: # Hitters with: Total HR / Year Teams Grouped by baseball era <2.99 ERA 20 W 200 SO .300 Avg 100 R 40 HR MLB HR Team 1901 16 140 Game schedule 21 15 4 41 23 0 455 28.4 1902 16 37 14 2 37 8 0 356 22.3 1903 16 35 16 22680 335 20.9 1904 16 154 Game schedule 54 17 *6 9 10 331 20.7 1905 16 49 16 41060 338 21.1 1906 16 Only 12 ERA over 3.00, highest 4.12 60 16 0 11 2 0 263 16.4 1907 16 Only 9 ERA over 3.00, highest 3.97 60 16 2940 245 15.3 1908 16 Only 5 ERA over 3.00, highest 3.60 64 11 3 11 4 0 267 16.7 1909 16 Only 9 ERA over 3.00, highest 3.73 56 9 2 11 4 0 260 16.3 1910 16 48 10 4 15 4 0 361 22.6 1911 16 New "livelier" baseball 29 15 *5 30 13 0 514 32.1 1912 16 35 14 3 27 12 0 443 27.7 1913 16 42 13 1 17 7 0 469 29.3 1914 16 (Federal League stats excluded) 51 12 2 16 4 0 415 25.9 1915 16 (Federal League stats excluded) 49 10 2 12 5 0 385 24.1 1916 16 58 8 1 15 4 0 383 23.9 1917 16 59 10 1 15 3 0 335 20.9 1918 16 128 Games played/team - WWI 46 6 0 12 00 235 14.7 1919 16 140 Games played/team - WWI 43 11 0 23 10 447 27.9 1920 16 New machine-wound baseball 24 17 0 39 11 1 630 39.4 1921 16 58.6 HR/team; Ruth hit record 59 HR 7 9 0 54 22 1 937 58.6 1922 16 7 9 0 52 19 1 1,055 65.9 1923 16 3 12 0 45 17 2 980 61.3 1924 16 9 8 1 45 15 1 896 56.0 1925 16 HR up 30% 4 7 1 46 19 0 1,169 73.1 1926 16 New "cork center" baseball 860 39 9 1 863 53.9 1927 16 57.6 HR/team; Ruth hit record 60 HR 12 7 0 48 15 2 922 57.6 1928 16 13 11 1 44 16 1 1,093 68.3 1929 16 1 4 0 57 *34 3 1,349 84.3 1930 16 NL Record .303 AVG 2 7 1 62 *36 4 1,565 97.8 1931 16 NL "deadened" their baseball 650 43 21 2 1,069 66.8 1932 16 HR up 27% 6 7 0 36 26 2 1,358 84.9 1933 16 HR down 27% 12 7 0 36 12 1 1,067 66.7 1934 16 HR up 26% 6 8 0 44 24 2 1,344 84.0 1935 16 6 9 0 37 21 0 1,325 82.8 1936 16 3 7 1 43 *35 3 1,364 85.3 1937 16 12 6 0 41 26 2 1,430 89.4 1938 16 4 4 2 38 23 2 1,475 92.2 1939 16 10 8 1 41 20 0 1,445 90.3 1940 16 7 5 1 30 18 2 1,571 98.2 1941 16 8 4 2 26 12 0 1,331 83.2 1942 16 WWII, many players leave for war 24 4 0 14 9 0 1,071 66.9 1943 16 WWII, ball w/lower-grade rubber 37 5 0 11 3 0 905 56.6 1944 16 20 6 0 18 7 0 1,034 64.6 1945 16 Standard baseball returned 18 6 1 13 8 0 1,007 62.9 1946 16 21 7 2 15 5 1 1,215 75.9 1947 16 Integration started; HR up 29% 12 6 0 22 13 2 1,565 97.8 1948 16 8 5 0 20 14 2 1,555 97.2 1949 16 > 100 HR/team for first time 9 7 0 23 13 2 1,704 106.5 1950 16 2 5 0 26 23 1 2,073 129.6 1951 16 5 13 0 17 11 2 1,863 116.4 1952 16 Korean War 22 6 0 15 6 0 1,701 106.3 1953 16 6 8 0 27 20 *6 2,076 129.8 1954 16 16 6 0 23 16 *6 1,937 121.1 1955 16 7 2 2 20 15 *6 2,224 139.0 1956 16 7 9 1 22 9 2 2,294 143.4 1957 16 11 3 0 14 8 4 2,202 137.6

Section 1 - Page 32 # # Pitchers with: # Hitters with: Total HR / Year Teams Grouped by baseball era <2.99 ERA 20 W 200 SO .300 Avg 100 R 40 HR MLB HR Team 1958 16 10 4 1 23 6 3 2,240 140.0 1959 16 Between 2,202-2,294 HR past 5 years 11 4 3 20 11 4 2,250 140.6 1960 16 5 3 2 10 6 3 2,128 133.0 1961 18 AL Expansion, 162 Game schedule 3 4 4 18 15 8 2,732 151.8 1962 20 NL Expansion, 162 Game schedule 9 8 5 23 13 3 3,001 150.1 1963 20 Strike zone widened 24 10 6 15 8 4 2,704 135.2 1964 20 20 5 11 21 10 2 2,761 138.1 1965 20 27 9 11 13 10 1 2,688 134.4 1966 20 20 7 11 12 6 3 2,743 137.2 1967 20 32 5 12 16 7 2 2,299 115.0 1968 20 "Year of the Pitcher" - 7 ERA < 1.99 49 7 12 6 011,995 99.8 1969 24 Expansion, 2 Division format/LG 24 15 15 18 6 7 3,119 130.0 1970 24 HR up 10% 6 11 9 27 18 6 3,429 142.9 1971 24 HR down 17% 34 14 10 20 4 2 2,863 119.3 1972 24 155 Games played/team - Strike 44 10 10 18 6 1 S 2,534 1973 24 Designated Hitter (DH) in AL 17 13 11 16 8 4 3,102 129.3 1974 24 20 11 8 22 6 0 2,649 110.4 1975 24 13 7 6 30 5 0 2,698 112.4 1976 24 93.1 HR/team, lowest in 30 years 20 8 7 24 6 0 2,235 93.1 1977 26 Expansion; HR up 67% 12 9 6 33 17 2 3,644 140.2 1978 26 21 8 5 16 6 2 2,956 113.7 1979 26 7 5 5 29 18 3 3,433 132.0 1980 26 10 7 2 33 10 3 3,087 118.7 1981 26 106 Games played/team - Strike 25 00 32 00S 1,781 1982 26 7 1 423130 3,379 130.0 1983 26 8 4 3 26 11 1 3,301 127.0 1984 26 12 3 4 25 13 1 3,258 125.3 1985 26 15 6 5 18 17 1 3,602 138.5 1986 26 11 5 12 23 11 1 3,813 146.7 1987 26 HR up 17%, 1-year "spike" 4 2 8 27 21 4 4,458 171.5 1988 26 HR down 29% 20 6 5 22 12 1 3,180 122.3 1989 26 21 3 6 18 9 1 3,083 118.6 1990 26 15 6 7 22 10 2 3,317 127.6 1991 26 15 4 4 25 15 2 3,383 130.1 1992 26 21 5 5 23 13 2 3,038 116.8 1993 28 Expansion; HR up 33%. 8 5 3 36 22 5 4,030 143.9 1994 28 115 G/team - Strike; 3 Div/LG 7 01 47 3 2 S 3,306 1995 28 144 G/team - Strike 5 0 344134S 4,081 1996 28 Record 17 players with 40 HR 6 3 12 48 41 17 4,962 177.2 1997 28 13 4 10 35 25 12 4,640 165.7 1998 30 Expansion; McGwire hit record 70 HR 8 4 11 49 39 13 5,064 168.8 1999 30 436 55 60 13 5,528 184.3 2000 30 448 54 51 16 5,693 189.8 2001 30 Bonds hit record 73 HR 2 7 10 46 37 12 5,458 181.9 2002 30 10 6 7 35 27 8 5,017 167.2 2003 30 8 5 7 40 27 10 5,059 168.6 2004 30 7 3 9 36 39 9 5,451 181.7 2005 30 9 4 8 33 25 9 5,017 167.2 2006 30 No 20 game winners** 2 0 6 38 35 11 5,386 179.5 2007 30 Fewest HR in 10 yrs., 1 sub-3.00 ERA 118 40 30 5 4,957 165.2 2008 30 HR down again, pitching on the rise 8 4 10 34 28 2 4,876 162.5 2009 30 Pitching dominance increases 11 0 10 42 22 5 5,042 168.1 2010 30 "Year of the Pitcher" (see page 27) 15 3 15 23 17 2 4,613 153.8

* Best seasons relative to MLB having 16 teams Record best seasons in yellow S-Strike ** For the first time in a non-strike season Next 4 best seasons in blue Season

Section 1 - Page 33 Pitchers with < 2.99 ERA, 20 Wins, 200 SO - all in the same season # Seasons Years LG Pitcher Accomplished Pitched Seasons Accomplished

AL Walter Johnson 7 21 1910-16

NL Juan Marichal 6 16 1963-66, 1968-69

AL Roger Clemens 5 24 1986-87, 1990, 1997-98 NL Christy Mathewson 5 17 1901, 1903-05, 1908 NL 5 14 1883-86, 1888

NL Tom Seaver 4 20 1969, 1971-72, 1975 NL (3); AL (1) Ferguson Jenkins 4 19 1967-68, 1971, 1974 NL Grover "Pete" Alexander 4 20 1911, 1914-15, 1917 AL Ed Walsh 4 14 1907-08, 1911-12 AL Rube Waddell 4 13 1902-1905 NL John Clarkson 4 12 1885-86, 1888-89

NL (2); AL (1) Randy Johnson 3 22 1997, 2001-02 NL (1); AL (2) Gaylord Perry 3 22 1966, 1972, 1974 NL Bob Gibson 3 17 1966, 1968-69 NL Sandy Koufax 3 12 1963, 1965-66 AL Bob Feller 3 18 1939-40, 1946 NL Amos Rusie 3 10 1890-92 NL Bill Hutchison 3 9 1890-92 NL (1); AA (2) 3 14 1888-89, 1892 AA Ed Morris 3 7 1884-86 NL Mickey Welsh 3 13 1884-86 NL Charley Radbourn 3 11 1882-84 NL Larry Corcoran 3 8 1880, 1883-84 NL Jim McCormick 3 10 1880, 1882, 1884

AL Pedro Martinez 2 18 1999, 2002 AL Nolan Ryan 2 27 1973-74 NL Steve Carlton 2 24 1972, 1980 AL 2 16 1971-72 AL 2 11 1964, 1967 NL 2 12 1963, 1965 NL 2 14 1962, 1965 AL 2 17 1945-46 NL 2 16 1924, 1928 AL Joe Wood 2 11 1911-12 AL Eddie Plank 2 17 1904-05 (7 from 1800's tied with 2) 2

Total times accomplished: 197 First done in 1879 by Monte Ward & Will White

Total times that 200 SO accomplished: 550 First done in 1879 by Monte Ward & Will White

36% of all pitchers with 200 SO also had an ERA < 2.99 and 20 Wins in the same season

Pitchers with < 2.99 ERA, 300 Wins, 3,000 SO - in career Games Years Seasons Pitched Pitcher ERA W SO Played Played

802 Walter Johnson 2.17 417 3,509 21 1907-1927

656 Tom Seaver 2.86 311 3,640 20 1967-1986

Section 1 - Page 34 Hitters with .300 AVG, 100 R, 100 RBI, 40 HR - all in the same season # Seasons Years LG Player Accomplished Played Seasons Accomplished

AL Babe Ruth 11 22 1920-21, 1923-24, 1926-32

AL Alex Rodriguez 6 17 1998, 2000-02, 2005, 2007 NL Barry Bonds 6 22 1993, 1996, 2000-02, 2004 NL Albert Pujols 6 10 2003-06, 2009-2010

NL Willie Mays 5 22 1954-55, 1961-62, 1965 AL Jimmie Foxx 5 20 1932-34, 1936, 1938 AL Lou Gehrig 5 17 1927, 1930-31, 1934, 1936

AL Frank Thomas 4 19 1993, 1995-96, 2000

NL Sammy Sosa 3 18 1998, 2000-01 NL Andres Galarraga 3 19 1996-98 AL Albert Belle 3 12 1995-96, 1998 AL Ken Griffey, Jr. 3 22 1993, 1996-97 NL Hank Aaron 3 23 1957, 1962-63 NL Duke Snider 3 18 1953-55 NL Ralph Kiner 3 10 1947, 1949, 1951 AL Hank Greenberg 3 13 1937-38, 1940

AL Carlos Delgado 2 17 2000, 2003 AL Jason Giambi 2 16 2000, 2002 NL Todd Helton 2 14 2000-01 AL Manny Ramirez 2 18 1999, 2004 NL Vladimir Guerrero 2 15 1999-2000 NL Jeff Bagwell 2 15 1999-2000 NL Mike Piazza 2 16 1997, 1999 NL Gary Sheffield 2 22 1996, 2000 AL Mo Vaughn 2 12 1996, 1998 AL Juan Gonzalez 2 17 1993, 1998 AL Carl Yastrzemski 2 23 1967, 1970 AL Mickey Mantle 2 18 1956, 1961 NL 2 15 1954-55 NL 2 17 1953, 1959 NL Johnny Mize 2 15 1940, 1947 NL Chuck Klein 2 17 1929-30

(41 players tied with 1) 1

Total times accomplished: 145 First done in 1920 by Babe Ruth

Total times that 40 HR accomplished: 302 First done in 1920 by Babe Ruth

48% of all players with 40 HR also had a .300 AVG, 100 Runs & 100 RBI in the same season

Hitters with .300 AVG, 2,000 R, 2,000 RBI, 500 HR - in career Games Years Seasons Played Player AVG R RBI HR Played Played

2,503 Babe Ruth .3422,174 2,213 714 22 1914-1935

3,298 Hank Aaron .3052,174 2,297 755 23 1954-1976

Section 1 - Page 35 MLB Players' Annual Salary Progression (Highest Salaries - partial progression) Minimum Average MLB Record Year Salary Player Salary Highest Salary Highest Salaried Player Team

1907 $0 $10,000 Honus Wagner PIT 1911 $0 10,000 Ty Cobb DET 1913 $0 (approx.) $2,000 20,000 NYY 1916 $0 20,000 Ty Cobb DET 1920 $0 20,000 Babe Ruth NYY 1921 $0 30,000 Babe Ruth NYY 32,500 Ty Cobb DET 1922 $0 5 yrs x 52,000 Babe Ruth NYY 1927 $0 (approx.) $6,000 3 yrs x 70,000 Babe Ruth NYY 80,000 Ty Cobb PHA 1930 $0 (approx.) $7,000 2 yrs x 80,000 Babe Ruth NYY 1947 $5,000 (approx.) $11,000 100,000 Hank Greenberg PIT 1949 $5,000 3 yrs x 100,000 Joe DiMaggio NYY 100,000 Ted Williams BOS 1954 $6,000 (approx.) $12,000 1958 $7,000 125,000 Ted Williams BOS 1966 $7,000 2 yrs x 130,000 Willie Mays SFG 1969 $10,000 $24,909 1st Collective Bargaining Agreement

1970 $12,000 $29,303 1971 $12,750 $31,543 3 yrs x 166,667 Carl Yastrzemski BOS 2 yrs x 180,000 Willie Mays SFG 1972 $13,500 $34,092 3 yrs x 200,000 Hank Aaron ATL 1973 $15,000 $36,566 3 yrs x 225,000 CWS 1974 $15,000 $40,839 1975 $16,000 $44,676 5 yrs x 750,000 Jim "Catfish" Hunter NYY 1976 $19,000 $51,501 1st year of free agency for players 1977 $19,000 $76,066 1978 $21,000 $99,876 1979 $21,000 $113,558

1980 $30,000 $143,756 4 yrs x 800,000 Pete Rose PHI 4 yrs x 1,000,000 Nolan Ryan HOU 1981 $32,500 $185,651 10 yrs x 2,000,000 NYY 1982 $33,500 $241,497 5 yrs x 2,040,000 George Foster NYM 1983 $35,000 $289,194 7 yrs x 2,285,715 * MON 1984 $40,000 $329,408 4 yrs x 2,100,000 Mike Schmidt PHI 1985 $60,000 $371,571 6 yrs x 2,515,362 * Dan Quisenberry KCR 1986 $60,000 $412,520 1987 $62,500 $412,454 5 yrs x 2,700,000 * BAL 1988 $62,500 $438,729 3 yrs x 2,340,000 STL 1989 $68,000 $497,254 3 yrs x 2,500,000 Roger Clemens BOS 3 yrs x 2,633,333 LAD 3 yrs x 2,633,333 MIN

Section 1 - Page 36 Minimum Average MLB Record Year Salary Player Salary Highest Salary Highest Salaried Player Team

1990 $100,000 $597,537 3 yrs x 2,966,667 KCR 3 yrs x 3,000,000 Kirby Puckett MIN 4 yrs x 3,000,000 Rickey Henderson OAK 3 yrs x 3,116,667 TOR 5 yrs x 3,250,000 Mark Langston CAL 4 yrs x 3,250,000 KCR 2 yrs x 3,500,000 OAK 4 yrs x 3,750,000 Will Clark SFG 1991 $100,000 $851,492 5 yrs x 3,860,000 Don Mattingly NYY 5 yrs x 4,700,000 Jose Canseco OAK 1992 $109,000 $1,028,667 4 yrs x 5,380,250 Roger Clemens BOS 5 yrs x 5,800,000 Bobby Bonilla NYM 1993 $109,000 $1,076,089 4 yrs x 7,100,000 CHC 6 yrs x 7,291,666 Barry Bonds SFG 1994 $109,000 $1,168,263 1995 $109,000 $1,110,766 3 yrs x 9,237,500 Cecil Fielder DET 1996 $122,667 $1,119,981 1997 $150,000 $1,336,609 5 yrs x 11,000,000 Albert Belle CWS 1998 $170,000 $1,398,831 6 yrs x 11,416,666 * Gary Sheffield LAD 5 yrs x 11,500,000 Greg Maddux ATL 6 yrs x 12,500,000 Pedro Martinez BOS 1999 $200,000 $1,611,166 7 yrs x 13,000,000 Mike Piazza NYM 5 yrs x 13,000,000 Albert Belle BAL 4 yrs x 13,100,000 Randy Johnson ARI 6 yrs x 13,333,333 Mo Vaughn ANA 7 yrs x 15,000,000 Kevin Brown LAD

2000 $200,000 $1,895,630 2001 $200,000 $2,138,896 8 yrs x 15,125,000 COL 2 yrs x 15,450,000 Roger Clemens NYY 4 yrs x 17,000,000 Carlos Delgado TOR 10 yrs x 25,200,000 Alex Rodriguez TEX 2002 $200,000 $2,340,920 2003 $300,000 $2,555,416 2004 $300,000 $2,486,609 2005 $316,000 $2,632,655 2006 $327,000 $2,699,292 2007 $380,000 $2,944,556 2008 $390,000 $3,154,845 10 yrs x 27,500,000 Alex Rodriguez NYY 2009 $400,000 $3,317,475

2010 $400,000 $3,340,133 2011 $414,000

Average Player Salary is based on Opening Day player payrolls, including players on the disabled list. Highest Salaries = Total contract salaries + signing bonuses divided by # years of contract ( excluding incentive bonuses). Additional contract variables add to the complexity of calculating an annual value, such as: deferred income w/o interest, promotional services, real estate associated income, personal services after retirement, etc. * These players had unusual contracts that could result in their annualized calculations varying by up to +/- $500,000, depending on the source or lack of contract details made public, and how an annual salary could be calculated.

Section 1 - Page 37 MLB Players' Highest Career Earnings (excludes incentive bonuses) 4/1/2011 (Through 2010) (Active players in bold) Years Seasons Future Contracts 2011+ Career Earnings Player Pos Played Played Salary + Sign Bonus Years

1 $266,500,000 Alex Rodriguez SS, 3B 17 1994 - 2010 $192,500,000 2011-2017 2 $223,470,000 Manny Ramirez OF 18 1993 - 2010 $2,000,000 2011 3 $206,230,000 SS 16 1995 - 2010 $54,000,000 2011-2013 4 $191,490,000 Barry Bonds OF 22 1986 - 2007 Retired 5 $179,237,500 Randy Johnson P 22 1988 - 2009 Retired

6 $173,049,000 Ken Griffey, Jr. OF 22 1989 - 2010 Retired 7 $167,900,000 Gary Sheffield OF, 3B 22 1988 - 2009 Retired 8 $154,542,500 Greg Maddux P 23 1986 - 2008 Retired 9 $152,249,000 Carlos Delgado 1B 17 1993 - 2009 Retired 10 $151,019,000 Pedro Martinez P 18 1992 - 2009 Retired

11 $147,177,500 Mike Mussina P 18 1991 - 2008 Retired 12 $145,114,294 Roger Clemens P 24 1984 - 2007 Retired 13 $141,552,133 Chipper Jones 3B 17 1993 - 2010 $28,000,000 2011-2012 14 $138,461,661 Jim Thome 1B, DH 20 1991 - 2010 $3,000,000 2011 15 $137,068,000 Mike Hampton P 15 1993 - 2010 None

16 $135,702,500 Tom Glavine P 22 1987 - 2008 Retired 17 $134,751,000 John Smoltz P 21 1988 - 2009 Retired 18 $133,746,500 Sammy Sosa OF 18 1989 - 2007 Retired 19 $131,315,000 Todd Helton 1B 14 1997 - 2010 $29,000,000 2011-2013 20 $130,890,500 Kevin Brown P 19 1986 - 2005 Retired 21 $130,808,996 Jason Giambi 1B, DH 16 1995 - 2010 Minor League 2011 22 $129,611,125 Mariano Rivera RP 16 1995 - 2010 $30,000,000 2011-2012

MLB Players' Largest Single Contracts (excludes incentive bonuses) 4/1/2011 (Current contracts in bold) Contract Length Single Contract Player Team Years Seasons Type of Contract

1 $275,000,000 Alex Rodriguez NYY 10 2008 - 2017 Contract extension 2 $252,000,000 Alex Rodriguez TEX 10 2001 - 2010 Free agency (opted out in 2008) 3 $189,000,000 Derek Jeter NYY 10 2001 - 2010 Contract extension 4 $184,000,000 Joe Mauer MIN 8 2011 - 2018 Contract extension 5 $180,000,000 Mark Teixeira NYY 8 2009 - 2016 Free agency

6 $161,000,000 C.C. Sabathia NYY 7 2009 - 2015 Free agency 7 $160,000,000 Manny Ramirez BOS 8 2001 - 2008 Free agency 8 $152,300,000 Miguel Cabrera DET 8 2008 - 2015 Contract extension 9 $151,500,000 Todd Helton COL 11 2001 - 2011 Contract extension 10 $142,000,000 Carl Crawford BOS 7 2011 - 2017 Free agency 11 $138,000,000 Troy Tulowitzki COL 7 2014 - 2020 Contract extension 12 $137,500,000 Johan Santana NYM 6 2008 - 2013 Contract extension 13 $136,000,000 CHC 8 2007 - 2014 Free agency

14 $126,000,000 TOR 7 2008 - 2014 Contract extension 14 $126,000,000 Barry Zito SFG 7 2007 - 2013 Free agency 14 $126,000,000 Jayson Werth WSN 7 2011 - 2017 Free agency 17 $125,000,000 Ryan Howard PHI 5 2012 - 2016 Contract extension 18 $121,000,000 Mike Hampton COL 8 2001 - 2008 Free agency 19 $120,000,000 Matt Holliday STL 7 2010 - 2016 Free agency 19 $120,000,000 Jason Giambi NYY 7 2002 - 2008 Free agency 19 $120,000,000 Cliff Lee PHI 5 2011 - 2015 Free agency

Section 1 - Page 38 MLB 2010 Opening Day Team Payrolls (excluding incentive bonuses) 11/2010 Difference from 2010 Record G +/- Team 2010 Payroll 2009-2010 2009 Payroll W L .500

1 New York Yankees P $206,333,389 2.4 % $201,449,189 95 67 28 2 Boston Red Sox $162,447,333 33.4 % $121,745,999 89 73 16 3 Chicago Cubs $146,609,000 8.8 % $134,809,000 75 87 -12 4 Philadelphia Phillies P $141,928,379 25.6 % $113,004,046 97 65 32 5 New York Mets $134,422,942 - 10.0 % $149,373,987 79 83 -4

6 Detroit Tigers $122,864,928 6.8 % $115,085,145 81 81 0 7 Chicago White Sox $105,530,000 9.8 % $96,068,500 88 74 14 8 Los Angeles Angels $104,963,866 - 7.7 % $113,709,000 80 82 -2 9 San Francisco Giants W $98,641,333 19.4 % $82,616,450 92 70 22 10 Minnesota Twins P $97,559,166 49.4 % $65,299,266 94 68 26

11 Los Angeles Dodgers $95,358,016 - 5.0 % $100,414,592 80 82 -2 12 St. Louis Cardinals $93,540,751 20.5 % $77,605,109 86 76 10 13 Houston Astros $92,355,500 - 10.3 % $102,996,414 76 86 -10 14 Seattle Mariners $86,510,000 - 12.3 % $98,904,166 61 101 -40 15 Atlanta Braves P $84,423,666 - 12.7 % $96,726,166 91 71 20

16 Colorado Rockies $84,227,000 12.0 % $75,201,000 83 79 4 17 Baltimore Orioles $81,612,500 21.6 % $67,101,666 66 96 -30 18 Milwaukee Brewers $81,108,278 1.2 % $80,182,502 77 85 -8 19 Tampa Bay Rays P $71,923,471 13.6 % $63,313,034 96 66 30 20 Cincinnati Reds P $71,761,542 - 2.4 % $73,558,500 91 71 20

21 Kansas City Royals $71,405,210 1.3 % $70,519,333 67 95 -28 22 Toronto Blue Jays $62,234,000 - 22.7 % $80,538,300 85 77 8 23 Washington Nationals $61,400,000 1.8 % $60,328,000 69 93 -24 24 Cleveland Indians $61,203,966 - 25.0 % $81,579,166 69 93 -24 25 Arizona Diamondbacks $60,718,166 - 17.4 % $73,516,666 65 97 -32

26 Florida Marlins $57,034,719 54.8 % $36,834,000 80 82 -2 27 Texas Rangers A $55,250,544 - 19.0 % $68,178,798 90 72 18 28 $51,654,900 - 17.1 % $62,310,000 81 81 0 29 San Diego Padres $37,799,300 - 13.6 % $43,734,200 90 72 18 30 Pittsburgh Pirates $34,943,000 - 28.2 % $48,693,000 57 105 -48

Totals: $2,717,766,875 2.3 % $2,655,395,194

American League teams in brown National League teams in blue 2010 World Champion: W 2010 AL Champion: A 2010 Playoff teams: P Payroll figures include salaries and pro-rated shares of signing bonuses, but exclude incentive bonuses. The New York Yankees have had the highest annual player payroll every year since 1997 ( Baltimore Orioles, 1996). Opening Day Payrolls: 2010 - 829 players (750 players on the Active Rosters and 79 players on the Disabled List) 2009 - 818 players (749 players on the Active Rosters and 69 players on the Disabled List)

41 players (5% of all players) on opening day in 2010 had the MLB minimum salary of $400,000. 82 players (10% of all players) in 2010 had a salary of $10 million or more. The 2010 teams with the most players earning $10 million: New York Yankees (9), Chicago Cubs (8), New York Mets (6), Philadelphia Phillies (5) The salaries of these 82 players equaled 43% of the total MLB player salaries in 2010. Luxury Taxes (paid by 4 teams over payroll thresholds 2003-2010): NYY-$192 mil; BOS-$15 mil; DET-$1.3 mil; LAA-$ .9 mil

Section 1 - Page 39 MLB Umpires with Most Games as an - career 1871-2010 Former MLBTotal Games World Series All-Star Umpire Player Seasons Umpired Years Games Called* Years Games Games

1 1905-1941 37 5,370 3,543 18 103 2 2 Bruce Froemming 1971-2007 37 5,163 1,300 5223

3 Tommy Connolly 1898-1932 35 4,768 2,316 8 45 N/A 4 1962-1992 31 4,673 1,186 5286 5 1972-2006 35 4,505 1,131 3193 6 Harry Wendelstedt 1966-1998 33 4,500 1,124 5334 7 Mike Reilly 1977-2010 34 4,491 1,127 4224 8 Bill McGowan 1925-1954 30 4,425 1,644 8434 9 Jerry Crawford 1976-2010 35 4,371 1,086 5272 10 Ed Montague 1974, 1976-2009 35 4,369 1,097 6344 11 Larry Barnett 1969-1999 31 4,290 1,090 4204 12 1979-2010 32 4,250 1,074 3133 13 1940-43, 46-55, 58-71 28 4,232 1,202 7427 14 Y 1890-1924 35 4,228 2,358 0 0 N/A 15 Y 1907, 1909-1937 30 4,218 1,926 8451 16 Joe West 1976-99, 2002-2010 33 4,186 1,052 4232 17 Cy Rigler 1906-22, 1924-35 29 4,144 2,468 10 62 1 18 Bill Summers 1933-1959 27 4,121 1,364 8477 19 Larry McCoy 1970-1999 30 4,023 1,015 2113

20 Hank O'Day Y 1884-1911, 13, 15-27 35 3,986 2,710 10 57 N/A

Nestor Chylak 1954-1978 25 3,857 974 5315 Y 1935, 1941-1965 26 3,621 1,070 5276 1906-1927 22 3,319 1,757 6 38 N/A 1936-1951 16 2,470 862 4213

* Games Called = the Home Plate Umpire for those games, calling the balls & strikes. Hall-of-Fame Umpires in Italics (9 Umpires have been inducted into the Baseball Hall-of-Fame in Cooperstown, NY). Active Umpires in Bold (through the 2010 season).

First Night Games "Under the Lights" - at 16 Ballparks, pre-1961 expansion

Date Ballpark & Home Team (A.L. in Red) Results

May 24, 1935 Crosley Field (Cincinnati Reds) (CIN) beat the Phillies, 2-1. Fan attendance was 20,422. June 15, 1938 Ebbets Field (Brooklyn Dodgers) (CIN) pitched his 2nd consecutive no-hitter. May 16, 1939 Shibe Park (Philadelphia Athletics) The Cleveland Indians outlasted the Athletics, 8-3 in 10 innings. June 1, 1939 Shibe Park (Philadelphia Phillies) The Pittsburgh Pirates beat the Phillies, 5-2. June 27, 1939 Cleveland Stadium (Cleveland Indians) The Indians shutout the Detroit Tigers, 5-0. Aug 14, 1939 Comiskey Park (Chicago White Sox) The White Sox defeated the St. Louis Browns, 5-2.

May 24, 1940 Polo Grounds (New York Giants) Giants 8, Boston Braves 1 May 24, 1940 Sportsman's Park (St. Louis Browns) The Cleveland Indians edged the St. Louis Browns, 3-2. June 4, 1940 Sportsman's Park (St. Louis Cardinals) The Brooklyn Dodgers won 10-1 over the Cardinals. June 4, 1940 Forbes Field (Pittsburgh Pirates) Pirates beat the Boston Braves, 14-2, Boston's 2nd "first night game" loss. May 28, 1941 Griffith Stadium (Washington Senators) The NY Yankees edged the Senators, 6-5. May 11, 1946 Braves Field (Boston Braves) The NY Giants won, 5-1. The Braves are now 0-3 in "first night games" May 28, 1946 Yankee Stadium (New York Yankees) The Senators payback the Yankees, 2-1, for their "first night" loss in 1941. June 13, 1947 Fenway Park (Boston Red Sox) Red Sox 5, White Sox 3 June 15, 1948 Briggs Stadium (Detroit Tigers) Tigers 4, Philadelphia Athletics 1

Aug 9, 1988 Wrigley Field (Chicago Cubs) The Cubs beat the NY Mets, 6-4 in the last ballpark to install lights

July 13, 1943 Shibe Park (Philadelphia) First All-Star Game at Night Oct. 13, 1971 Three Rivers Stadium (Cincinnati) First World Series Game at Night

Section 1 - Page 40