Joe Borden: Josephus the Phenomenal

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July 28,1875, Joe Borden of the Philadelphia White Stockings of the National Association tossed the first no hitter in professional baseball history. It was the only no-hitter in the history of the National Association during it’s five year existence. The following season he was the winner in the opening game for the Boston Red Caps of the National League.

He had the colorful nickname of “Josephus the Phenomenal.” Borden pitched under the surnames of Josephs and Nedrobs. He was from a wealthy family that disapproved of playing baseball. He was bought out of his contract in 1876. He finished his career with a 13-16 won-loss record, and an ERA of 2.60 at the age of 22.

Jody Gerut Hits First Home Run At Citi Field

On this date in baseball history Jody Gerut hit the first home run at Citi Field. Gerut tagged a 1-1 pitch from Mike Pelfrey over the rightfield wall to become the first  batter to homer in a regular season opener at a major league park. The Padres would go on to beat the Mets in their debut at Citi Field 6-5.

Ken Griffey Jr. First Career Home Run

On this day in baseball history Ken Griffey jr. connected on the first pitch he saw at the Kingdome off the White Sox's Eric King for a home run. It is his father Ken Griffey Sr's birthday, he is an outfielder for the Cincinnati Reds. It is the first of the 630 home runs that he would hit in his career

Griffey, or Junior as he was known was an 13 times All-Star, awarded with 10 Gold Gloves, 7 Silver Slugger award, 1997 American League MVP, and will be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame as a part of the class of 2016.