* When the National League first started in 1876, pitchers had to pitch underhand and the batter could request a high or low pitch. Strikes only occurred if the batter swung and missed.


* In 1910 the cork center was added to the official baseball.


* Cal Ripken Jr., shortstop for the Baltimore Orioles didn't miss a game in 16 years.


* The American Baseball League was formed in 1882.


* In 1885 the baseball bat was allowed to have one flat side.


* In 1876 an umpire was allowed to asked spectators and players whether a catch had been fairly made if he did not see it himself.


* Previous to the 1931, fly balls that bounced over or through the outfield fence were considered home runs.


* The New York Yankees have won more World Series titles than any other team with 26.


* Barry Bonds holds the single-season home run record with 73.