This Day in MLB History: December 18

MLB History

1903 - Ban Johnson is reelected as president of the American League and given a raise to $10,000. The league also votes to allow coaches at first and third base at all times. The AL also adopts the “foul strike” rule that has been in place in the National League since 1901. A foul ball will now count as a strike unless there are already two strikes.

1920 - Ty Cobb agrees to a $32,500 contract as manager of the Tigers.

1956 - Former shortstop Phil Rizzuto signs on as a radio and TV announcer with the Yankees.

1973 - The Yankees announce the hiring of Dick Williams as the team’s new manager which sets up a legal showdown with A’s owner Charlie Finley. AL president Joe Cronin will rule…